Understanding Why Pipes Burst in Freezing Temperatures

As reported by HowStuffWorks in their article “What Causes Pipes to Burst When They Freeze?”, the historic Thayers Inn in Littleton, N.H., experienced a severe burst pipe disaster that caused extensive damage. Bitterly cold temperatures caused a water pipe to burst in the building’s attic, resulting in an estimated 500 gallons of water gushing out every minute. This incident led to collapsing ceilings, buckled wood floors, and warped antique furniture.

Burst pipe disasters like this are often compounded by ongoing problems such as deep structural damage and mold growth. Even a hairline crack in a water pipe can release up to 250 gallons of water a day. Identifying frozen pipes early can help prevent such disasters. If you turn on a faucet and no water comes out, or if the toilet does not refill after flushing, your water pipes are likely frozen. A trickle from a fully opened faucet is also a sign of ice blockage. If you suspect your pipes are frozen, call a plumber and turn off the water at the main line.

Freezing temperatures below 20 degrees Fahrenheit put water pipes at risk of freezing, but wind chill can cause pipes to freeze even at higher temperatures. As water molecules freeze, they expand, putting pressure on metal and plastic pipes. This pressure can cause pipes to burst, particularly at joints and blockages where water is trapped between ice and a closed faucet.

Leaving a faucet slightly open can help relieve pressure and prevent pipes from bursting. Although pipes often burst as they thaw, the actual damage occurs when they initially freeze. The ice blockage acts as a plug, and the full extent of the damage becomes apparent only when the ice begins to melt.

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Article with all rights reserved, courtesy of howstuffworks.com.