Category: Plumbing

Frozen Pipes: Complications, Troubleshooting, and Solutions

Nov 02, 2023

Frozen Pipes: Complications, Troubleshooting, and Solutions

  • Plumbing
Learn the telltale signs of frozen pipes and how to prevent and treat the consequences that arise from this issue. Contact MillTown today!

When the cold sets in, the threat of frozen pipes becomes a stark reality for many homeowners, especially in regions like New England. Water pipes freezing can lead to a host of complications, ranging from inconvenience to costly damage. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore when pipes typically freeze, the consequences they bring, and most importantly, how to prevent, identify, and address the issues that follow. Read on to learn how to protect your home from the havoc caused by frozen pipes. At MillTown Plumbing, we can offer expert advice and service for your pipes!  Contact us today if you’re experiencing the consequences of frozen pipes. 

When Do Pipes Usually Start Freezing?

Water pipe freezing is most common during the frigid winter months. In regions with consistently low temperatures, such as New England, frozen pipes are a significant concern from late fall to early spring. As temperatures drop, the risk of pipes freezing increases, with the coldest periods being overnight and during extended cold snaps. Since the temperatures have dropped significantly here in New England, it’s super important to keep an eye on your plumbing.

Consequences of Frozen Pipes

Frozen pipeline issues can lead to severe consequences, including burst pipes and extensive damage to your property. Some of the potential complications include:

  • Bursts: When water pipes freeze, the water inside them expands, leading to increased pressure. This can cause pipes to burst, resulting in water damage and costly repairs.
  • Damage: Besides burst pipes, frozen pipes can also lead to cracks and leaks when the ice inside them eventually thaws.
  • Property Damage: Water damage can ruin insulation, drywall, flooring, and personal belongings.
  • Mold and Mildew: Moisture from burst pipes can create an environment conducive to mold and mildew growth.

Identifying and Locating the Freeze

If you suspect your pipes are frozen, it’s essential to act promptly. Signs of frozen pipes include reduced water flow, unusual noises from the plumbing, or frost on exposed pipes. To locate the freeze, turn off the main water supply and carefully inspect your pipes, starting from the faucets and working backward.

How to Fix Frozen Pipes

Addressing this issue requires caution and care. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to fix frozen pipes:

  1. Keep the faucet open to relieve pressure.
  2. Apply gentle heat using a hair dryer, heating pad, or space heater.
  3. Start heating the pipe closest to the faucet and work your way back.
  4. Never use an open flame or excessive heat to thaw pipes.

Frozen Pipes Maintenance

Regular pipe maintenance can help prevent frozen pipes. Inspect your plumbing system annually, looking for signs of wear, insulation issues, or vulnerable areas. Taking proactive measures can save you from costly repairs down the line. Preventing pipes from freezing is crucial to avoiding these complications. Here are some effective measures to protect your plumbing:

  • Insulate Exposed Pipes: Insulate pipes in unheated areas like basements, attics, and crawl spaces using pipe insulation or heating tape.
  • Seal Gaps and Cracks: Seal any gaps or cracks in your home’s exterior to prevent cold air from entering.
  • Keep Cabinets Open: Allow warm air to circulate around pipes under sinks and vanities by leaving cabinet doors open.
  • Drip Faucets: On extremely cold nights, let faucets drip slightly to keep water flowing and prevent freezing.

Who Should I Call When My Frozen Pipes Burst?

If your frozen pipes burst or the situation becomes too complex to handle, it’s crucial to call a professional plumber immediately. Burst pipes require immediate attention to minimize water damage and ensure safe repairs. McHales can deliver reliable and safe solutions right to your door when your plumbing freezes over. We’re just a phone call away, contact us now for broken pipe repair!

Warm Up Your Plumbing! 

In regions like New England, frozen pipes are a real threat during the winter months. To avoid the complications and costs associated with water pipes freezing, take preventive measures, and be prepared to address these issues promptly. Remember, proactive maintenance and swift action can save you from the headache of dealing with burst pipes and extensive damage to your home. Stay warm and safe this winter by keeping your pipes in good condition by contacting us today to learn more about preventative measures!

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By brenna@admachines.com

Benefits of Drain Camera Inspection

Jun 07, 2023

Benefits of Drain Camera Inspection

  • Plumbing
what-are-the-benefits-of-drain-camera-inspections-milltown-plumbing

When it comes to identifying and resolving drain issues, traditional methods often fall short. Thankfully, advancements in plumbing technology have introduced a game-changer: drain camera inspection. Using a sewer camera, professionals visually inspect drains and sewer lines, uncovering hidden problems with precision and efficiency. In this article, we will explore the numerous benefits of drain camera inspection, how it works, signs indicating the need for inspection, and a reliable plumbing service provider specializing in this advanced technique – Milltown Plumbing.

What is Drain Camera Inspection?

Drain camera inspection involves the use of a specially designed sewer camera to explore the interior of drains and sewer lines. This non-invasive method allows professionals to visually examine the condition of pipes, and identify blockages, leaks, and other issues that may be hidden from view. The high-resolution camera on a flexible rod provides real-time footage for accurate drain diagnosis and targeted repairs.

How Does Drain Camera Inspection Work?

Plumbers carefully insert the sewer camera, equipped with advanced technology, into the drain or sewer line. Moving through the system, it captures detailed images and videos of the pipe’s interior, transmitting footage to a monitor. Plumbers can then analyze the images, spotting problem areas such as clogs, cracks, root intrusions, or misaligned pipes. This method eliminates the need for invasive exploratory measures, saving time and minimizing disruption to your property.

Signs You Need a Drain Camera Inspection

To ensure optimal functionality and avoid costly damages, it is important to know when to consider a drain camera inspection. Here are some common signs that indicate the need for a drain camera inspection:

  • Recurring clogs: If you frequently experience drain clogs even after attempts to clear them, it indicates a deeper issue within the drain system.
  • Slow draining: Persistent slow draining throughout your plumbing system suggests a potential blockage or obstruction.
  • Foul odors: Unpleasant smells emanating from drains often indicate a buildup of debris or stagnant water.
  • Backups and overflows: If wastewater starts backing up into sinks, toilets, or showers, it is crucial to have a sewer inspection to determine the cause and prevent further damage.

Benefits of Drain Camera Inspection

When it comes to identifying and resolving drain issues, drain camera inspection offers a range of exceptional benefits

  • Accurate diagnosis: Sewer cameras provide real-time visual evidence, allowing plumbers to pinpoint the exact location and nature of drain issues accurately.
  • Cost-effective: By identifying the root cause of drain problems, drain camera inspections help avoid unnecessary repairs, saving you money in the long run.
  • Time-saving: Instead of trial-and-error methods, drain camera inspections offer swift identification of issues, enabling plumbers to implement targeted solutions promptly.
  • Preventive maintenance: Regular drain camera inspections help detect early signs of potential problems, allowing proactive measures to be taken before they escalate into major issues.
  • Non-invasive: Drain camera inspection eliminates the need for disruptive digging or exploratory measures, minimizing damage to your property during the diagnostic process.
  • Documentation: The visual evidence obtained through drain camera inspections serves as valuable documentation for insurance claims or property assessments.

Who to Call for Drain Camera Inspection?

When it comes to reliable drain camera inspection services, Milltown Plumbing stands out as a trusted provider. With expertise and advanced equipment, we provide accurate and efficient sewer inspections, ensuring a thorough drain system assessment. Milltown Plumbing’s professionals excel in sewer camera technology, providing effective solutions for identified issues with their expertise.

Discover the Benefits of Drain Camera Inspection with Milltown Plumbing

Drain camera inspection is a revolutionary method that offers a host of benefits in identifying and resolving drain issues. Leveraging technology, professionals diagnose accurately, save time and money, ensuring long-term drain system health. When in need of reliable drain camera inspection services, trust Milltown Plumbing to deliver exceptional results. Contact us today to experience the advantages of drain camera inspection firsthand.

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By Milltown Plumbing

Why DIY Drain Cleaning Can Be A Bad Idea

Nov 14, 2022

Why DIY Drain Cleaning Can Be A Bad Idea

  • Plumbing
clogged-drain drain cleaning MillTown Plumbing

Putting food scraps down your drain may seem like a simple and easy solution to cleaning dishes and silverware this holiday season. Even in liquid form, most sauces and scraps should be disposed of in the trash instead of the sink. Putting these foods down the drain can often cause a blockage. Your first inclination may be to go purchase some drain cleaner to clear that clog. By putting those chemicals down your drain, you may unknowingly be causing more harm than good. In this blog post, we go over why DIY drain cleaning can be a bad idea.

The Dangers Of DIY Drain Cleaning

Liquid drain cleaners are harmful to your body

The harsh chemicals in store-bought liquid drain cleaners can seriously damage your skin and eyes if it comes in contact with either. The chemicals can also saturate the air you breathe, negatively affecting your breathing. 

Liquid drain cleaners are harmful to your plumbing and sewage systems

While these chemicals are designed to destroy blockages, they don’t just stop there. PVC plumbing can be seriously damaged as a result of using these store-bought drain cleaners. Older plumbing is susceptible to damage as well if they have been compromised by corrosion from old age.

Liquid drain cleaners are harmful to the environment

Out of sight, out of mind is not the mentality you should have when using these DIY drain cleaning products. The chemicals found within them negatively affect the environments they end up in, whether that’s public sewage or a septic tank. These chemicals can seep into the soil and into groundwater causing further damage.

With the holiday season quickly approaching, you should start preparing yourself. By keeping this information in mind, you will prevent costly issues that can put a damper on your holiday cheer. Sauces from decadent holiday meals can and will harden after the fat content within them congeals to make a solid blockage in your pipes. Combine that with other scraps of food and you have got yourself a proper problem. Instead of store-bought drain cleaners, what are some alternative solutions?

Safer DIY Drain Cleaning Solutions

Chemically safer drain cleaners

Using a combination of hot water, baking soda, and vinegar can help clear slow-moving drains and stubborn clogs. This combination is significantly more friendly to the environment and much safer to handle.

Plungers

A plunger can be an effective tool to clear clogged toilets as well as clogged drains. By placing a wet rag over the overflow opening, removing the stopper, and filling the sink with water, you can plunge the drain like you would a toilet.

Drain snakes

An at-home drain snake or drain auger is a great way to clear clogs that occur at the ‘U’ in your drain, closest to the drain entrance. These are typically safe to use for homeowners and have a minimal environmental impact.

Professional services

If you have a clog or drain problem that persists even after exhausting these safe DIY drain cleaning solutions, a professional plumber should be your first call. Call MillTown Plumbing to keep your drains clear, and be sure to save with this month’s, November 2022, $99 Main Drain Clearing special! Contact us today and check out our marvelous reviews!

By Milltown Plumbing