Cold-Shot® Pipe Freezing Tool Saves Contractor Time & Money

One particular repair problem got personal for Austin L. Montanti, owner of Montanti Mechanical – a commercial and residential renovation firm based on Staten Island, NY. “I purchased an apartment on Staten Island for myself – and quickly realized that the shut-off valves for the kitchen and bathroom sinks didn’t work,” he recalls. Time is money for guys like Montanti. “We insist on prompt, professional service,” he says. “And over 10 years, we’ve built a pretty solid network of satisfied customers in the New York City area – with 100% of our business coming from word-of-mouth.”

About the Solution

Facing an unacceptable delay of several more hours while building managers wouldn’t quickly shut off apartment water, Montanti acted fast – and “outside the box” – by using his new Cold-Shot® Pipe Freezing Kit from General Pipe Cleaners. This innovative, time-saving tool eliminates the need to drain water lines, sprinkler systems, or hot water systems before cutting pipe or tubing.

How It Works

Using Carbon Dioxide (CO₂) in dip tube-type cylinders, Cold-Shot quickly and safely freezes liquids in steel, copper, cast iron, aluminum, and plastic pipes, ranging from 1/8 inch (10mm) through 2 inch (60mm) in diameter. With Cold-Shot keeping the system fully pressurized, Montanti rapidly replaced all the valves in just 30 minutes – without closing the main supply or draining any lines before effecting repairs.

“It was actually the first time I used it,” Montanti smiles. “Cold-Shot was really easy-to-use!” The process involves placing the freeze head around the pipe, attaching the hose, and opening the cylinder valve. Liquid carbon dioxide then flows into the tool’s freeze heads and forms dry ice at a temperature of -110°F (-79°C), creating an ice pack that withstands 7,000 PSI without damaging the lines.

Kit Contents

• 10 sets of freeze heads
• Two high-pressure spiral hoses with injectors
• T-distributor
• Locking nut
• Hex head screwdriver
• Rubber gloves and goggles
• Carrying case

Cost Savings

From experience, Montanti figures that Cold-Shot saves his company money. Without it, he calculates that conventional valve repair charges would total “about $400.” “So with Cold-Shot added to our list of Montanti Mechanical services, it quickly pays for itself!” Additionally, Montanti rented the CO₂ gas from his local welding supply shop for about $25, debunking the misconception that freezing pipes is costly or requires expensive refrigeration equipment.

Results

Shortly after his own repair, some of Montanti’s clients coincidentally experienced problems with faulty water main valves – and Cold-Shot efficiently and safely handled those as well. “I’ve never felt compelled enough to write a testimonial about anything in my life,” Montanti notes. “But I wrote General thanking them for their detailed design and solid product.” Cold-Shot continues to provide reliable service to Montanti Mechanical. “Our Cold-Shot kit continues working amazingly well!” owner Montanti beams.

For more information or to see the Cold-Shot in action, contact the Drain Brains® at General at 800-245-6200 or by email at info@drainbrain.com.