Understanding the Risks of Frozen Pipes and How to Prevent Them

Residential, commercial, and institutional buildings have pipelines that provide necessary services such as plumbing, ductwork, and ventilation. These pipes need regular checks to prevent them from freezing, causing them to crack, burst, or leak. These pipe problems are common in colder regions and pose damage and health risks to the property and its occupants.  

This article will discuss the risk of icy pipelines and provide simple tips on preventing them.  

The Risks of Frozen Pipes 

Most commercial and industrial buildings have advanced technology to keep the pipes from freezing, especially during the winter, as it may cause significant damage to the building's surfaces. If this happens, home and building owners may need several repair teams to fix or replace the damaged section. 

In addition, water leakages and water that seeps into the walls, ceiling, and floors may create a moist environment in which mold thrives the most. Mold can have unfavorable effects on a person's health. People exposed to it for longer may develop allergic reactions, respiratory problems, and skin and lung infections. 

Also, broken pipes may cause electrical hazards, leading to electrocution, electrical shocks, and fire. If this happens, owners may suffer a significant financial loss as the renovation or replacement can be expensive. 

How to Prevent Frozen Pipes 

• Check and Seal Cracks  

Check the building, especially the basement and crawl space areas, for possible cracks or holes, as this may cause cold air or water to enter the building, which may cause the building's heat temperature to fluctuate. Too much cold air may cause the pipes to freeze. 

• Maintain the Ideal Room Temperature 

The building's ideal room temperature prevents the pipes from getting frozen. Check the temperature occasionally and ensure it is at least 55°F (12°C). This hassle-free preventive measure is the best to prevent any frozen pipe that may damage the property.  

• Utilize Insulated Access Doors and Panels 

Insulated access doors and panels are known for noise and heat loss prevention. It also has features that can help lower energy costs and, at the same time, prevents mold formation. Installing them can effectively maintain the temperature to reduce the risk of frozen pipes during the colder season and provide occupants with a safe indoor space.  

However, it would help if you had a reliable and trustworthy access door supplier to ensure the efficiency of the product. There are several access panel suppliers that you can check online, such as Best Access Door and Access Doors and Panels. These two have been in the construction industry for years, supplying construction to over 25,000 customers. They offer entry doors from general-purpose access, insulated access, steel access door, and floor doors to fire-rated roof hatches.  

• Insulate the Pipelines 

Insulating the pipeline is one of the best ways to avoid iced pipes. However, it would be best if you had suitable insulation materials and the dimension of the line for the insulation to work, especially in those unheated areas. Installing a ready-made insulated pipe or at least insulating the pipes will help protect your property from the harmful effects of icy lines.  

• Keep the Cabinet Doors Open 

Leaving your sink cabinet doors open is one of the most underrated ways to keep the tubes highly functional. Opening the storeroom doors will allow warm air to circulate to keep the pipelines warm, preventing them from getting frozen.  

Conclusion 

Frozen pipes can cause significant damage to the infrastructure and its occupants. Regularly check, insulate, and seal all cracks and holes to prevent heat loss. Take all these precautionary measures to avoid freezing pipes' harmful and potentially costly effects.