Frozen pipes are anyone’s worst winter nightmare. Not only do they disrupt your water supply and make life generally miserable, but if left untreated, they can lead to costly water damage from burst pipes. Understanding how to prevent and fix frozen pipes can save you stress and expense during the cold months.
In this article, we’ll walk you through what to do if your pipes freeze, how to safely thaw them, and steps you can take to prevent this from happening again. Let’s jump right in!
Signs Your Pipes are Frozen
Frozen pipes often give off some telltale signs before a problem escalates. Here are the most common red flags to watch for:
- Reduced or No Water Flow: If you turn on a faucet and little to no water comes out, this is a strong indicator that your pipes might have frozen.
- Frost on Exposed Pipes: Look for frost buildup on pipes that are in uninsulated spaces like crawl spaces or near exterior walls.
- Strange Sounds: If you hear odd sounds when turning on faucets, such as whistling or banging, that could mean water is struggling to flow through frozen pipes.
Immediate Steps to Take When You Notice Frozen Pipes
The moment you realize your pipes may be frozen, it’s important to act quickly. Some first steps to address the problem are:
1. Locate the Frozen Section of the Pipe
Begin by figuring out which part of the plumbing system is frozen. Pipes in unheated areas like attics, crawl spaces, or near exterior walls are the most likely culprits.
2. Open the Faucet
Open the faucet closest to the frozen pipe, even if no water is coming out. This relieves pressure in the system, helping prevent a pipe burst when the ice begins to melt.
3. Shut Off the Water Main (If Necessary)
If the frozen pipe has already burst, it’s crucial to shut off the water supply immediately. Locate the main shut-off valve in your home to stop water from flowing through the damaged pipe and causing water damage.
4. Check for Cracks or Leaks
Before thawing the pipe, check for visible cracks or leaks. If you notice any, contact a licensed plumber in your area to handle repairs before you begin the thawing process.
How to Safely Thaw Frozen Pipes
Once you’ve taken the necessary precautions, you can begin thawing the frozen pipes. Here’s how to do it safely:
1. Start by Warming the Pipe Closest to the Faucet
Begin thawing the pipe at the faucet and work your way backward. This allows any melted water to escape through the open faucet, reducing the risk of pressure buildup.
2. Methods to Thaw Pipes
There are several safe methods you can use to thaw frozen pipes:
- Use a Hair Dryer: One of the safest and most effective ways to warm pipes is by using a hair dryer. Apply heat evenly to the pipe without getting too close.
- Apply Heated Towels: Soak towels in hot water, wring them out, and wrap them around the frozen pipe. This method is slower but can effectively melt ice.
- Place a Space Heater Nearby: If the frozen pipe is in a larger area, like a crawl space or unheated basement, place a space heater nearby. Always follow safety precautions to avoid overheating or fire risks.
3. What Not to Use to Thaw Pipes
While it may seem like a quick fix, never use an open flame device, such as a blowtorch or lighter, to thaw pipes. These methods can damage pipes and lead to dangerous situations, especially near flammable materials.
Will Frozen Pipes Thaw on Their Own?
In some cases, frozen pipes may eventually thaw on their own. However, this can take hours, and during this time, ice expansion can cause pipes to burst. Waiting too long increases the risk of damage, so it’s better to take action immediately.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Dealing with Frozen Pipes
Dealing with frozen pipes can be tricky, and many homeowners make avoidable mistakes. Here are some common ones to watch out for:
- Ignoring Frozen Pipes: Hoping they’ll resolve themselves could result in a burst pipe and extensive water damage.
- Using Open Flames: As mentioned earlier, using open flame devices is extremely dangerous. Always opt for safer methods.
- Not Checking for Leaks After Thawing: After pipes thaw, always inspect them for leaks. Sometimes, tiny cracks may form even if the pipe didn’t burst, which can lead to future water issues.
How to Prevent Frozen Pipes in the Future
1. Insulate Exposed Pipes
Use pipe insulation to cover exposed pipes in unheated areas like attics, crawl spaces, and basements. This will help keep them warm during cold weather.
2. Let Faucets Drip
On especially cold nights, allow cold water to drip from faucets connected to pipes that are at risk of freezing. A slight flow of water can prevent ice from forming.
3. Maintain Adequate Heating
Make sure the heat in your home remains consistent, even when you’re away. Keep the temperature in your home above 55°F to prevent freezing in exterior walls or areas without direct heat.
4. Seal Cracks and Openings
Inspect areas around exterior walls, windows, and doors for drafts, and seal any openings. Cold air leaking into your home can freeze pipes quickly.
When to Call a Professional Plumber
Sometimes, despite your best efforts, pipes will freeze, crack, or burst. Here’s when it’s best to seek professional help:
- Signs of Burst Pipes or Major Damage: If you notice water pooling or hear running water behind your walls, a pipe has likely burst. Contact a licensed plumber in your area immediately to prevent further damage.
- Persistent Issues with Frozen Pipes: If your pipes frequently freeze despite preventative measures, a professional can help assess and insulate your plumbing system.
- Preventative Measures and Inspection: A plumber can inspect your pipes and water supply system, providing advice on winter-proofing your home.
Why Trust Black Lake Plumbing?
Here in our own community of Thurston County and the surrounding area, our team at Black Lake Plumbing is proud to have been keeping your homes and business functioning without a clog for over 20 years. With years of experience in plumbing issues during every season, we are well-equipped to prevent and fix frozen pipes.Unexpected burst or frozen pipes? Take a deep breath, we’ve got your back. Whether you need a routine checkup or find yourself in the middle of a plumbing emergency, we’re here to help. Don’t hesitate to contact us, or visit our about page to learn more.
