Winter can wreak havoc on your plumbing, but you don’t have to let frozen pipes turn into a costly nightmare. With these simple plumbing tips, you’ll learn how to prevent, identify, and safely deal with frozen pipes — before they burst and soak your house.
Identify Frozen Pipes Early
If you notice that water isn’t flowing or is only trickling from a faucet, you likely have a frozen pipe. Immediately check your other faucets to try and isolate the problem area. Then check exposed pipes in unheated spaces like basements, crawl spaces, or exterior walls. Early detection is key to avoiding serious damage.
Inspect for Frost or Cold Spots
Look for frost on exposed pipes or feel for sections that are unusually cold. Pipes with frost buildup or cold spots are likely frozen inside. Listen for unusual noises like gurgling or banging when you turn on the tap — this can indicate ice blockages.
Turn Off the Main Water Supply
To prevent flooding if a frozen pipe bursts, shut off the main water supply immediately. Knowing where your water shutoff valve is before a problem arises can save you time and prevent major damage. If you don’t know where your main shut-off is, call a plumber. Be sure to test it as well, the valve may need replacing if it is old. Plumbers can also install easier-to-use valves if you struggle with yours. It’s worth the investment.
Apply Heat Gradually
Use a hairdryer, heating pad, or warm towels to thaw the frozen pipe. Always start at the faucet and work your way toward the frozen section. Avoid using open flames, which can damage the pipe or even start a fire. Space heaters are also great to use, but be careful not to let them run for too long.
Open Faucets to Relieve Pressure
Turn on the faucet connected to the frozen pipe before you start thawing. This helps relieve pressure as the ice melts, reducing the risk of the pipe bursting. It also allows water to flow once the blockage is cleared. When you or your helper hears water shoot out of your faucet, you’ll know you’re in the clear.
Insulate Vulnerable Pipes
Do this before the weather gets too cold if at all possible. Wrap exposed pipes with foam sleeves, heat tape, or even a thick towel to keep them warm. Pay extra attention to pipes in unheated spaces like garages or basements. Insulating now can save you from costly repairs later.
Let Faucets Drip in Extreme Cold
Most of us already know this tip. On nights where temperatures drop below freezing, let faucets connected to vulnerable pipes drip slow and steady. It may seem wasteful, but moving water is less likely to freeze, and the small cost of water is nothing compared to the price of repairs.
Keep Your Home Warm
Maintain a consistent indoor temperature of at least 55°F, even if you’re away. Open cabinet doors under sinks to allow warm air to circulate around the pipes. A steady temperature helps prevent freezing. If you leave for the holidays and don’t turn your main water line off, be sure to keep your house warm while you are away!
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Disconnect Outdoor Hoses
Remove and store garden hoses before the first freeze. Drain outdoor faucets and shut off their water supply to prevent freezing in external pipes. Leaving hoses connected can trap water, which can freeze and expand. You can also buy insulators to put on your outdoor faucets to protect them from freezing.
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Know When to Call a Professional
If you can’t locate the frozen section, multiple pipes are affected, or a pipe has burst, it’s time to call a plumber. Professional help is also necessary for pipes frozen inside walls or ceilings. Attempting major repairs yourself can lead to further damage and higher costs.
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