During the winter months, pipes become more prone to freezing and sometimes even bursting. This can be a nightmare for homeowners, so it’s always recommended to do preventative maintenance before it gets too cold. However, if you notice you’re not getting water from one or more faucets, it’s likely a pipe is already frozen. If you find yourself in this situation this winter, there are safe ways to mitigate damage and restore water flow. Here are 4 easy tips:
Relieve pressure
First, shut-off the main water valve and open your faucets to relieve any water-pressure. This will prevent any frozen pipes from cracking or bursting. If you don’t know where to find the valve or how to shut it off, call your utility company or a professional plumber for help.
Locate and inspect
Then, look carefully in the places where frost is most likely to gather on your pipes. That means anywhere that water flows but usually has no heat. Common areas include basements, crawl spaces and attics, below the sink, and external walls. If there are visible cracks in your pipes, or the culprit is an external wall pipe, do not attempt the next steps. Stop and call a professional immediately.
Gradually thaw with low heat
If you heat the pipes too fast, the quick change in temperature can cause cracks, so begin thawing the frozen pipes with slow, low-level heat. You can use something as simple as a towel soaked in hot water, or small, easy to handle appliances like a hair-dryer and a heat-pad. Something larger like a space heater can also be used under strict supervision, but beware: they are harder to control in terms of pace and positioning. Never, ever use any tool that has an open flame, like a blowtorch.
Inspect and insulate
After the pipes are properly thawed, inspect them again for any small cracks. If there are none, the next step is to insulate. Proper insulation will ensure that freezing doesn’t happen again. You can use spray foam, pipe wrap, or heat tape.
Again, if the situation is more serious, don’t hesitate to call a professional. Especially if the water pipes are unsalvageable.
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