Learn the best way to prevent freezing pipes. Here are six steps you can take when handling frozen pipes.
Cold temperature can result in the freezing of water pipes. Freezing in pipe systems usually creates so much pressure inside the pipes causing them to burst. The best way to prevent freezing in the pipes is to ensure they are warm enough throughout. Even so, there is a myriad of approaches involved in unfreezing pipes. Here are six steps you can take when handling frozen pipes.
When You Open the Faucet and Nothing Comes Out: Learn to Deal with a Frozen Pipe in 6 Easy Steps
- Locate the Frozen Pipe
For you to thaw a pipe that has frozen, you will first need to determine which ones are frozen. When you turn on the faucet and no water comes out, then you’ll know that the pipe leading to your faucet is probably frozen. If that is the case with one pipe, then there is a chance other pipes have frozen as well.
- Open the Faucet
Before you can attempt to thaw the frozen pipe, you’ll need to open the faucet which is fed by the pipe. Make sure you open the cold and hot handles to help relieve pressure in the system and to allow the fluid to escape after thawing has begun.
- Work Your Way to the Blockage
As mentioned, you can start the thawing process by opening the faucet and then working your way down towards the blockage. This is important as it will help to ensure the steam and melting ice can escape via the faucet. If you begin thawing near the blockage, the ice could get stuck, resulting in pressure buildup in the pipe. Remember, if find it difficult unblocking frozen pipes, you can hire a plumber to help with the entire process.
- Thawing Exposed Pipes
In case the frozen pipe is in an area that can be accessed by ease, there are various options you can take to thaw the pipe. Apply heat until the water leaving the faucets attains its full strength. You can use options such as the hairdryer, hot towels, a portable space heater, and heat lamp to thaw exposed pipes,
- Thawing Enclosed Pipes
If the pipes are situated in a place that is not easily accessible, you can apply a heating tape to thaw the pipes. Tapes usually act like electric blankets, directly supplying heat directly to the pipe. This helps in curing the cold spells and keeping the pipes warm. Using a heating tape is an excellent approach for pipes of short sections. The good news is that the tapes are easily available so you can install and monitor them for problems.
- Use Additional Insulation
Pipes which are found in areas that lack proper insulation may require additional insulation to keep them from freezing. Basement or attics pipes aren’t the only ones requiring proper insulation. If you are experiencing issues with your pipes, you can use extra insulation to help remedy the situation.
Final Word
If you are having problems dealing with frozen pipes, you can always seek help from the professionals. However, you need to do enough research so you can be confident you are making the right choice as far as choosing a plumber is concerned.
