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Frozen pipes keep plumbers busy

Page Last Updated: Wednesday December 9, 2009 12:00am PST

Victoria Campbell, News 4

Professional plumbers in the Reno area have been racing from call to call for three days, ever since temperatures plunged near zero leaving pipes frozen all over town.

Plumbers are recommending that residents close the vents leading to their foundations in order to keep cold air away from pipes. They should also insulate any pipes that are exposed to outside air. If some pipes freeze, leaving no access to water in part of a home-- like the bathroom or kitchen-- plumbers recommend that residents turn on the faucets in that part of the house and leave them on. They should not leave the house until the situation is resolved.

But if water has been cut off to the entire home because all pipes are frozen, it's best to call a plumber. Residents should never use open flames, candles, blow-torches or any other device to thaw a frozen pipe. Plumbers can use "pipe-thawing equipment" that is safe for use in homes.

For more information on how to insulate your home from the effects of cold, the Truckee Meadows Water Authority has posted some tips here.

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