Ten thousand dollars. That’s the average insurance claim related to “water damage and freezing,” according to the Insurance Information Institute. Each year, one in 50 homeowners will file such a claim—and we’re guessing that you, like all Pittsburg plumbing customers, would rather not be that “lucky” one. In fact, you’d rather not endure the hassle of any sort of insurance claim, let alone one that involves the word water.
Of course, when it comes to preventing busted water pipes (or burst water pipes, for you card-carrying members of the Grammar Police Association), it’s not just about the headache: the paperwork and clean-up and deductible (ouch). It’s about heartache, too. Imagine a ruined wedding photo album. A hopelessly warped antique dining hutch that you’d been saving for your grandkids. A water-soaked, and then mildewed, favorite chair—like that ghastly (but remarkably comfy) mustard-yellow, spinner-rocker-recliner you’ve had since your college days.
All joking aside: Frozen pipes can obviously cause horrific damage to both your home and your belongings.
Let’s head back to elementary school science class for just a sec. When water freezes, it expands. (Apparently water is a unique liquid in this regard!) If there’s enough water in a particular pipe, and/or if said pipe has a defect, the expanding liquid-now-solid creates sufficient pressure to rupture the pipe. A crack as small as ⅛” can release 250 gallons of water per day—so don’t assume your pipe has to burst in a dramatic or even obvious fashion to do massive damage. Fortunately, burst pipes are usually a preventable problem.
If you suspect one of your pipes has frozen, turn off your main water valve (just in case there’s already a rupture), leave the taps open, and call us for help. There are several methods to warming a frozen pipe, and we’d love to make sure you’re using the safest, most-effective option. If you insist on trying to handle the situation yourself, never ever use an open flame, and don’t use an electric appliance such as a hair dryer or space heater in standing water.
As a family-owned and operated plumbing company, we understand how critical it is to keep your home safe from drain and sewer disasters. Our experts will always give you the personal attention and exceptional service you deserve.
Our professionals are dedicated to providing you with the best plumbing solutions possible. We will listen to your needs and concerns and present you with repair or replacement options. You can rely on us to offer the most cost-effective solutions!
At Almighty Plumbing, we take pride in assisting our customers in achieving greater peace of mind. Every repair and installation job we complete comes with a multi-year warranty that other East Bay plumbing contractors can't beat!