(INDIANAPOLIS) - The tragic situation at Martin University is a reminder that frozen pipes can caused problems in homes as well.
Indiana plumber Denny Smith says the wind is the main culprit in freezing pipes, especially those along outside walls. Smith says opening cupboards beneath sinks can help keep pipes warm in times of cold weather and prevent any pipe freezes.
Smith says if pipes do freeze, getting heat to the frozen pipes for a uniform thaw is the key to preventing pipes from bursting if one area thaws too quickly and swells the pipe.
Smith says although you can tell if metal pipes are frozen by the frost build-up, plastic pipes are harder to diagnose.
When your pipes freeze, you can try to unfreeze them yourself, but you are better off calling a plumber.
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