Frozen water pipes are a serious risk during very cold winter weather. When water freezes in a pipe, it expands and can exert pressure at over 2,000 pounds per square inch, which is enough to rupture almost any pipe as there’s nowhere for the ice to expand.
A frozen pipe can be a time bomb. There may be no leaking until the frozen water blocking the pipe begins to thaw. If left alone, thawing water from frozen pipes can cause tens of thousands of dollars in major flooding, water damage, destroyed walls, ceilings, and floors.
When facing the possibility of a burst pipe due to freezing, it’s crucial to address the issue promptly. If you suspect a section of your pipe is frozen, you may need to open up the wall or ceiling to access it. Thawing the frozen section is similar to thawing an exposed pipe, always starting from the faucet side towards the frozen area to allow water to flow out as the ice melts.
For exposed pipes, such as those in an unfinished basement or garage, there are several safe thawing methods. Never use an open flame, like a blow torch, as it can cause a fire hazard and damage the pipe. Instead, consider using a blow-dryer, which is an easy and safe option. Place a cookie sheet behind the pipe if it’s close to the wall to help radiate heat from the wall onto the backside of the pipe.
A small, powerful portable heater can be directed onto the frozen section of a pipe, such as those under a kitchen sink or in a vanity cabinet. Always monitor the heater while it’s in use.
Electric heat tape is a ribbon-like wrap containing electrical heating elements, controlled by a thermostat. Wrap it around the pipe you want to heat and plug it into the wall. Heat tape can also be left on pipes year-round and turned on when needed to prevent freezing in critical areas.
An electrical heating pad can be used to thaw pipes. Plug the pad in and wrap it around the pipe, moving it from the faucet to the blockage as the water starts to thaw. Alternatively, you can soak towels in hot water and wrap them around the pipe, ensuring to swap them out as they cool.
To prevent pipes from freezing in the future, take several proactive measures. Keep faucets dripping to maintain a flow of water that keeps pipes slightly above freezing. Maintain a consistent indoor temperature of at least 55F to prevent freezing. Open cabinet doors to allow heated air to reach pipes inside. Keep heat tape on problem pipes and plug it in during especially cold weather. Insulate pipes with foam insulation wrap to slow heat transfer, although this cannot prevent freezing if the air is cold enough. Consider installing a permanent heater, like a baseboard heater, to keep areas with pipes above freezing point; avoid using portable heaters for this purpose as they should not be left unattended.
Protecting outdoor faucets is crucial for winter weather. Begin by removing garden hoses attached to outdoor faucets. If your faucet isn’t frost-proof, winterize the pipes by turning off the water supply inside the house, draining the exterior section of the pipe and faucet, and placing outdoor faucet covers over exposed faucets.
It’s essential to check for leaks in and around your pipes. Inspect the pipes for cracks or joints that may need replacing, and ensure there are no air leaks in the surrounding areas. If air leaks are detected, seal them with caulk to prevent cold air from entering and causing damage. Regularly calling a plumber is a wise decision. They can check your pipes for leaks, help identify and seal air leaks, insulate your existing pipes, or even replace them with more resilient, frost-resistant materials. Frequently Asked Questions: Do frozen pipes thaw on their own? Yes, they will eventually thaw, but allowing this to happen can lead to pipe bursts. Therefore, it’s crucial to thaw frozen pipes yourself. How long does it take for frozen pipes to unfreeze? Gradually unfreezing a frozen pipe with a blow-dryer, portable heater, heat tape, hot towels, or a heating pad typically takes 30 minutes to an hour. How do plumbers unfreeze pipes? Plumbers use a heat gun to unfreeze pipes in your home safely and efficiently.