Winter season is here and you will find frozen pipes quite often now. This happens because of the decreasing temperature that freezes the water inside pipes and even breaks the pipes. This hampers the water supply and also damages the pipes. You will find repair and pipe replacement quite expensive as well. This handcrafted guide comes with all the details about frozen pipes what to do and how to address this issue.
Why Do Pipes Freeze?
As the temperatures start freezing, pipes also start to freeze usually below 32°F (0°C). There are many reasons for it shared below.
- Insufficient Insulation: During winters, pipes in unheated/poorly heated spaces, such as attics, basements, or garages don't get ample heat. Such spaces can have freezing temperatures if not properly insulated.
- Sudden drop in Temperature: A sudden temperature drop can make the pipes cold and lead to pipe freeze.
- Pipes with Still Water: If there is any water standing still in pipes, there is a chance you will find it frozen. This problem doesn't occur much in pipes with moving water.
- Wind Chill: Some pipes located near cracks or openings, such as vents or poorly sealed windows, can freeze due to cold air.
Once you understand all these above-mentioned factors, you can easily identify the pipes that can freeze.
Frozen Pipes – What to Do Now?
Found frozen pipes? You must take quick action to prevent the pipes from bursting. Follow all the steps shared below:
- Turn Off the Main Water Supply: Find and turn off your home's main water shut-off valve. This will stop any chance of flooding in case a pipe bursts.
- Open Faucets: Quickly open the affected faucet to relieve pressure. Allow the water to flow once the pipe thaws.
- Damage Inspection: Check if there are any leaks or visible cracks. If you notice any burst pipe, contact a professional plumber immediately.
- Safe thawing of pipes: Start the thawing of pipes using the methods below. Don't use any open flames as they can damage pipes and cause fires.
Thaw Hidden Pipes
Finding and thawing hidden pipes is a time-consuming process and requires patience. You can follow the steps shared below for a strategic approach.
- Open Cabinets and Doors: For pipes located behind kitchen/bathroom cabinets, open the doors to allow warm air to circulate.
- Increase Room Temperature: You should turn up the thermostat to warm the pipe’s surrounding area.
- Use a Space Heater or Infrared Lamp: Keep a space heater/lamp near the wall of the frozen pipe. Make sure that you use the heater safely and not leave it unattended.
Apply Heat to Exposed Pipes
You can thaw exposed pipes in no time with the help of direct heat.
- Heating Pad
- Heat Lamp
- Hot Towel
- Hair Dryer
Add Insulation to Exposed Pipes and Unconditioned Areas
As per the old saying, “Prevention is always better than cure.” Here are some ways to avoid frozen pipes in the future:
- Fix/Seal the gaps: Look for cracks/gaps in the foundation and walls to seal them so that no cold air can enter.
- Insulate the pipes: You need to cover the exposed pipes with foam pipe insulation. It is both effective and pocket-friendly. If there is extreme cold, you can go with heat tape or pipe wraps with in-built heating elements as well.
- Insulate the unheated areas: You can use fiberglass/foam insulation on ceilings, line walls, and floors in all unheated areas.
- Open your cabinets and doors: In times of extreme cold, you must open the cabinet and interior doors for the circulation of warm air.
- Leave the faucets dripping: It is important to allow faucets to drip slightly to keep the water moving through the pipes.
