Pipes are a vital part of your residential and business plumbing network. There are several types of pipes that are made of different material. The winter is the most significant time of year for your pipes. The winter brings arctic temperatures, increased use, and excess water from melting snow. Both of these can contribute to increase wear and tear of your pipes.

Many homeowners are left with a huge bill when a plumbing emergency occurs with pipe(s). Keep reading more details below to discover why pipes are prone to burst in the winter and what you can do if you run into this problem.

Why Do Pipes Burst In The Winter?

The freezing temperatures are your pipes worst enemy. Water crystalizes in a hexagonal form when it freezes in the winter. This leaves far less room for water and food to go down the pipes (i.e. block) and can cause them to burst.

Water modules expand in the winter when they freeze. Many pipes freeze because homeowners fail to keep their pipes warm or leave a trickle of water dripping from the faucet to keep their pipes functional. The goal is to keep your pipes thawed and clear during the winter to avoid your pipes bursting. Call an HVAC technician in your area for details about the condition of your pipes before the cold weather sets in.

Your pipes can also burst in the winter from an unnoticed hairline fracture. A mere hairline fracture may seem like a small problem, but it can mean big trouble for your pipes in the winter. A hairline fracture can already be present in the pipes or cold weather can cause one to form. Eventually, a crack can cause leaks and lead to bursting and flooding can also occur. A professional HVAC tech can perform preseason maintenance on your pipes to check for fractures or defects.

Normal wear and tear can also cause pipes to burst I’m the winter. Your pipes can just be worn and by the winter they’re unable to hold out during the harsh temperatures and burst. The following statistics list the life expectancy of your pipes:

  • Brass pipes 40-70+ years
  • Copper pipes 50+ years
  • Galvanized steel 20-50 years
  • Cast iron 75-100 years
  • PVC drain lines indefinitely

How To Avoid A Busted Pipe In The Winter

The best way to ensure your pipes are winter ready is by hiring an expert. A professional HVAC technician and plumber has expertise with your unique pipes and can recommend the best repair or replacement options.

More importantly, a busted pipe is an emergency situation that can cost thousands of dollars to repair. Restoration cost due to flooding or a mold buildup could also be necessary. Many homeowners aren’t aware of the fact that a busted pipe can also have environmental consequences including mold and mildew.

A busted pipe can be expensive, but an HVAC professional can make replacements or repairs to ensure a major issue with your pipes doesn’t reoccur over the winter. Many HVAC specialist also provide a warranty on their work to protect your investment.

If your pipes have burst or you need advice about winter plumbing, contact your local HVAC professional today.

 

For more information, contact Vinny’s Jersey Plumbing, located in Wayne, New Jersey.  We also service other towns in New Jersey, such as Parsippany, Ridgewood and Ho Ho Kus.