In Frozen Pipes

Bristol, Johnson City, and Kingsport, TN

On a brisk winter day, you attempt to turn on the faucet, only to find it unresponsive – a clear indication of a potential frozen pipe. If faced with this situation in your Kingsport home, take the following steps to prevent a pipe from bursting.

Dealing with a Frozen Pipe:

  1. Leave the Faucet On: A frozen pipe won’t burst until it starts thawing. Keep the faucet on so that, as the pipe thaws, water has an outlet.
  2. Locate the Frozen Pipe: If possible, identify the frozen pipe by checking other faucets. If others function, you might pinpoint the frozen one. If uncertain, seek professional assistance to locate and unfreeze the pipe safely.
  3. Avoid Using a Blowtorch: Never attempt to thaw the pipe with a blowtorch, as it poses a fire hazard. Instead, consider using a hairdryer, maintaining a safe distance from the heating element.

Handling a Busted Pipe:

  1. Shut Off the Main Water Valve: In the event of a burst pipe with water flowing, immediately shut off the main water valve above the water heater or the one by the street. Ensure everyone in your household knows these emergency shut-off locations.
  2. Call a Water Restoration Company: Reach out to a water restoration company in the Johnson City area, such as Spotless Carpet Cleaners. With 24/7 services, we swiftly respond to start water removal and prevent mold and mildew growth.
  3. Contact Your Insurance: Inform your homeowner’s insurance about the water damage to understand coverage. Quick action is vital, as mold and mildew can develop within 24 hours of water damage.

Preventing Frozen Pipes:

  1. Drip Faucets: Allow faucets to drip when temperatures fall below freezing.
  2. Insulate Exposed Pipes: Insulate pipes exposed to the cold to minimize the risk of freezing.
  3. Open Cabinet Doors: Leave cabinet doors beneath sinks open to let warm air reach pipes.
  4. Maintain a Reasonable Thermostat Setting: Keep the thermostat at a reasonable temperature, even when away, to prevent freezing.

If faced with a home flood from a burst pipe this winter, contact Spotless Carpet Cleaners at (423) 926-9251. Our 24/7 emergency services cater to residential and commercial clients in Bristol, Johnson City, and Kingsport.