How to Keep Commercial Pipes From Freezing

12/8/2021 (Permalink)

This West Valley City, UT office suffered water damage.

Living in a colder climate can present your commercial business with several unique challenges. Frozen pipes at home can be a hassle, but freezing issues associated with a business can be devastating. Since water expands when it freezes, pipes may burst, leading to the need for major water line repair.

Protecting Your Pipes

Exposed pipes are very susceptible to wintry weather. If you live in a colder climate or are expecting subzero temperatures, you need to winterize your pipes. Exposed pipes may be located in a variety of areas:

• Basement
• Attic
• Crawl spaces
• Outdoors

At the very least, they need to be insulated. Heat cables or heat tape is another popular option for protecting against frozen pipes. These cables radiate a small amount of heat and are powered by electricity. When used properly, they can keep water flowing. Some can even be controlled by a thermostat. In some situations, you might want to combine insulation with heat cables.

Shut off any outside water sources that you don't need, especially if you are expecting particularly low temperatures. When a building is left unattended, make sure the thermostat is set no lower than 55 degrees Fahrenheit.

Dealing With Emergencies

Even if you take all the necessary precautions, you should still be prepared in case of an emergency. This may include a backup water supply depending on your business needs. Make sure you and your employees know where the main shutoff valve is located. Educate yourself on minor plumbing repairs. You may be able to temporarily patch a hole and prevent further water damage. If you are dealing with frozen pipes in West Valley City, UT, call a professional as soon as possible.

Freezing conditions can wreak havoc on exposed plumbing. Take precautions and be prepared for any unfortunate emergencies. Train your staff to know what to look for, what to do, and who to call should a disaster occur.