The cold weather in Iowa has arrived and winter is officially underway. Weather in Iowa is highly unpredictable, especially in winter so it never hurts to be prepared. Some of the most common problems that arise during Iowa winters can be frozen pipes or moisture inside the home, which can potentially lead to water damage. If you do happen to have water damage, ServiceMaster by Rice provides water restoration in our service areas throughout Iowa and southern Minnesota.
What to Do to Prevent Pipes from Freezing in Your Des Moines Home
If water freezes in your pipes, it could cause them to break. Broken or ruptured water pipes in your home can cause a major headache. Pipes that are exposed to severe cold temperatures are at risk for breakage. For example, pipes in your basement, attic or garage can easily freeze in the winter if they are not heated or properly insulated, and don’t forget about your outdoor hose bibs, swimming pool lines and water sprinkler supply lines.
Frozen pipes may be caused by:
- Extreme drops in temperature
- Lack of insulation
- Low thermostat temperature
There are a couple of precautions you can take to be sure your pipes in the winter stay in excellent condition. Heat tape or heat cables can be wrapped around your pipes to prevent them from freezing. If you will be away from your home for a period of time during the winter do not completely shut off your heat. This will cause the pipes to freeze; instead keep the temperature of your house at approximately 65 degrees.
What to Do If a Pipe Freezes
Signs that your water pipes are frozen:
Extremely low or no water pressure is coming out of the faucet. If you are experiencing low or zero water pressure, keep the faucets ON. ServiceMaster by Rice offers services in water restoration services in the Carroll, Des Moines Storm Lake areas, and more. Call us for assistance!
The pipe burst and water begins flooding. If you have a ruptured water pipe it could leave tremendous damage. Locate and turn off your water valve. To receive the best service and salvage your personal belongings, contact one of the service ServiceMaster by Rice locations in Iowa.
What to Do After a Pipe Burst in Sioux Center, Storm Lake or Milfrod
Bursting water pipes do happen, and unfortunately can sometimes leave you with water damage, especially if you have a flooding basement. ServiceMaster by Rice can assist you with any water damage your home has as well as preventing mold damage in the future. After contacting a ServiceMaster associate you should do the following tasks:
First of all, be extremely careful in a room with standing water if the electricity is on. You should not enter the room if that is the case. Keep away from the room, and be sure pets are being carefully watched. A ServiceMaster associate will be at your Iowa location shortly.
If the room is safe to enter, you can begin removing water-damaged furniture and personal items you wish to dry and salvage. While you wait you can use fans to dry out the floor. Other items you can use with cleaning include a sump pump, wet-dry vacuum and dehumidifier. ServiceMaster by Rice has high velocity air movers and dehumidifiers to dry the area if you don’t have the supplies on hand.
Water Damage Cleanup from ServiceMaster by Rice
To receive additional information about our water damage service please contact us. Whether you live in Des Moines, Atlantic, Carroll, Storm Lake, Cedar Rapids, Fairmont, or their surrounding areas, ServiceMaster is glad to be of assistance.
