Frozen Pipe Prevention & Repair in Chicago

Protect your pipes from freezing this winter with these tips.

Did you know the hoses that you use to water your lawns or wash your cars could cause a big plumbing emergency with the upcoming freeze?

In the cold winter months in Chicago, something as simple as the garden hose you use to water your grass or clean your car can become a major plumbing problem. As the weather gets colder every year, Rocket Plumbing receives tons of calls from people needing help with frozen pipe repair. The cause? Leftover water in the water hose— if you leave these hoses connected to buildings and homes all over the Windy City, they can become dangerous. As the water in the pipes freezes, the ice works like a conductor, sending the cold straight to your faucets and even further to the pipes next to them. This can cause the dreaded burst pipe, which is every homeowner’s nightmare.

Don’t worry, though! This crisis can be avoided with an easy tip. As winter comes around, make it a habit to disconnect any hose from its tap. Even though the hose might be at risk in the cold, it’s not worth the potential damage and cost of a burst pipe.

Rocket Plumbing is more than just an emergency number; we’re your plumbing guards in the winter. You can get expert help from us to stop your pipes from freezing, and you can count on our years of experience if you ever need repairs.

Close up of outdoor water tap covered in fros attached to a wooden post on an allotment garden in winter

For a stress-free winter, read our full guide on how to keep your home’s water lines from freezing and how to thaw them quickly if they do.

Why Frozen Pipes Are a Problem

Frozen pipes are one of the most serious plumbing problems, owing to a special property of water: it expands when frozen. This natural expansion puts great pressure on whatever’s containing it, whether made of metal or plastic. No matter the “strength” of a container, expanding water can cause pipes to break—hence a pipe burst.

Certain pipes, particularly those exposed to the biting cold, are more vulnerable than others, including outdoor hose bibs, swimming pool supply lines, water sprinkler lines, and main water supply pipes. Furthermore, pipes located in unheated areas, such as basements, attics, garages, crawl spaces, or even kitchen cupboards, are more vulnerable. Furthermore, pipes running against external walls with little insulation are strong candidates for freezing, necessitating extra caution.

Facing issues with your outdoor faucet, hose bib, sillcock, or spigot? Don’t wait for a leak! Contact us now for expert assistance and peace of mind.

    What Homeowners Can Do to Prevent Frozen Pipes:

    Before the onset of cold weather, prevent freezing of these water supply lines and pipes by following these recommendations:

    1. Outdoor Preparation:
      • Drain water from swimming pools and sprinklers according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Unless otherwise directed, avoid using antifreeze since it is toxic and dangerous to humans, pets, and the environment.
      • Outdoor hoses should be removed, drained, and stored. Close the valves that provide water to outside faucets such as hose bibs, sillcocks, and spigots. Open the exterior faucet to allow the remaining water to drain and expand without causing pipe damage.
    2. Indoor Precautions:
      • Examine parts of the house where water supply pipes are located in unheated zones, such as the basement, crawl spaces, attic, and garage. Insulate both hot and cold water pipes in these zones.
      • Consider items made expressly for water pipe insulation, such as pipe sleeves or UL-listed heat tapes, to keep you warm in the winter.
      • Maintain a consistent thermostat setting throughout the day and night. While this may slightly raise your heating expense, it is a preventative precaution against costly pipe repairs caused by freezing.
      • Keep your home’s heat on and set it to no less than 55° F if traveling during the cooler months.
      • On exceptionally cold days, keep taps slightly open to maintain a trickle—this keeps water circulating and reduces the possibility of freezing.
    3. Safety Measures:
      • If there are water supply lines inside, make sure the garage doors are closed.
      • Open cabinet doors in the kitchen and bathroom to allow warmer air to circulate around plumbing equipment. However, keep any hazardous substances out of the reach of youngsters.

    Defrosting and Thawing Frozen Pipes:

    • If you detect a decrease in water flow, it could be due to a frozen pipe. These are frequently found against external walls or near where water enters the house.
    • Maintain the afflicted faucet’s operation. The water will start to flow when you treat the pipe and the ice melts.
    • Use safe heating options such as an electric pad, hairdryer, or hot water-soaked cloths. Open flames and combustible heating devices should be avoided.

    How Rocket Plumbing Can Assist:

    Frozen Pipe Repair & Future Prevention:

    • Professional Thawing: If you are unable to locate or reach the frozen spot, or if you are unable to thaw the pipe, please contact us right away for professional assistance.
    • Regular inspections can help identify potentially dangerous situations where pipes may freeze.
    • Pipe Relocation: We may properly relocate exposed pipes to provide better protection against freezing temperatures.
    • Insulation & Upgrades: Increase the insulation in attics, basements, and crawl spaces to keep temperatures steady. We can provide advice and assistance in efficiently insulating your pipes.
    • Consultation: Contact our licensed staff for further information, house assessments, or any plumbing difficulties. We’re here to make sure your plumbing is in good working order all year.

    Don’t Let Winter Ruin Your Plumbing!

    Rocket Plumbing has you covered whether you want to prevent frozen pipes or need urgent repair. Trust us to protect your home from the chilly effects of Chicago winters. Make an appointment today to ensure peace of mind throughout the season.

    Rocket Plumbing is Chicago’s first line of defense against frozen pipes.🚀 Book Your Service Now!

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