What to Do if You Experience Frozen Pipes at Your Business | SERVPRO of South Atlanta
12/16/2021 (Permalink)
Frozen pipes are something no business owner wants to experience, but unfortunately, any time the temperature falls below 32 degrees Fahrenheit, it is a possibility. While this is something that many Atlanta business owners consider to only be a threat to those up north, the reality is that pipes in the southern climates tend to be more likely to freeze, given that insulation for extremely cold weather does not come standard in the area.
If you suspect that your business has frozen pipes, knowing what to do next is a must. Frozen pipes themselves do not cause damage, but if they burst, the resulting water damage can be rather costly.
Below, we have outlined some tips for business owners so they know exactly what to do if their pipes freeze.
What to Do if the Pipes in Your Commercial Building Freeze
| Turn Off the Water Main | Before doing anything else, turning off the main water valve is a must if you suspect you have frozen pipes. That way, water is not allowed to keep flowing toward the iced blockage, which is what can eventually lead to a full-on burst pipe.
| Determine Where the Freeze Is | There are several ways you can hone in on the location of a frozen pipe. Figuring out which taps are and are not letting water through, sniffing for any strange odors from drains and looking for pipes that are cold to the touch or covered in frost will help you figure out exactly where the ice is located.
| Start the Thawing Process | Turning the heat up, using a heating pad and employing a hair dryer are all helpful tactics for thawing out a freeze in a pipe. If you do not feel confident doing this, call in a professional right away.
| Check Your Insurance Coverage | Every commercial policy is different, so be sure to check your insurance coverage so you know exactly what a burst pipe means. Hopefully, it will not be necessary knowledge to use, but it is always best to be certain just in case.
*If your business has experienced water damage, SERVPRO of South Atlanta are the restoration professionals to call. Contact us today at (404) 505-1760 or visit www.SERVPROsouthatlanta.com to learn more about our water restoration services.