What should you do If your water pipes are frozen?
If you've ever been in this situation before, you know that frozen pipes can be a huge pain. They can also cause plenty of damage to appliances, floors, cabinets, walls, and more if they burst. Here are some tips on how to deal with them before the damage sets in.How Do You Know If Your Pipes Are Frozen
There are a few signs that can indicate that you have a frozen pipe:
- No water or low water pressure: If you turn on a faucet and no water comes out, or if the water flow is very low, this could be a sign that you have a frozen pipe.
- Strange noises: Frozen pipes can sometimes make strange noises, such as knocking or banging, as the water inside them expands and contracts.
- Frost on the pipes: If you can see frost or ice on the outside of the pipes, this is a strong indication that the pipes are frozen.
- Cold spots in your home: If you notice that certain areas of your home are colder than usual, this could be a sign that you have a frozen pipe in that area.
What is the first thing you should do if your pipes are frozen
If you discover that one of your pipes is frozen in your home by taking the steps above, try to locate the source. Check for cracks or breaks. If you find any, call a plumber. If you cannot locate the frozen pipe, it is best to call a plumber. Even though it may not be cracked or broken, it's best to be safe. A licensed professional plumbing company, like Smith's Plumbing, can help. They will locate the pipe, diagnose it, as well as provide you with the solution.
If your pipe froze, does that mean it will bust
That is not always the case. However, with extreme freezing temperatures, it is likely to bust if there has been no water flowing for an extended period. It is generally not recommended to wait for a frozen pipe to thaw on its own, especially if you need running water for essential purposes. If you have a frozen pipe, you should take steps to thaw it as soon as possible. You should also leave the faucets connected to the frozen pipe open as this will help to release any pressure that builds up.
Are certain types of pipes more susceptible
If your pipes freeze, turn off the main valve inside your house. You should notify your locate utility company that supplies your water. They typically have an emergency number you can call and report (like MLGW). Though typically they're not harmful, professionals can usually prevent pipes from becoming dangerous to you. However, if a frozen pipe is discovered you should tend to it immediately. It will become an emergency if it bursts. If you notice damage to your flooring and other valuables, it's best to take action sooner than later. If you want to learn what to do if your floors are damaged, read our blog post by clicking the button below.
What steps should you take next
If you suspect that one of your pipes has frozen in your home, there are a few steps you can take to try to thaw the pipe:
- Keep the faucet open: If you have a frozen pipe, open the faucet that is connected to the frozen pipe. This will allow any water that melts to flow through the pipe. It will help relieve the pressure that could build up and cause the pipe to burst.
- Apply heat to the pipe: There are several ways to apply heat to a frozen pipe to help thaw it out. You can use a hair dryer, a portable space heater, or a heating pad wrapped around the pipe. Be sure to keep the heat source at least a few inches away from the pipe to avoid overheating it.
- Use hot water: You can also try applying hot water to the frozen pipe. Be sure to use caution when handling hot water and take care not to burn yourself.
- Use a pipe thawing device: There are also specialized devices available that are designed to thaw frozen pipes. These devices use electricity to generate heat and can be an effective way to thaw a frozen pipe.
It is important to thaw pipes slowly and gradually to prevent them from bursting. If you are unable to thaw the pipe or if the pipe has already burst, you should shut off the water supply. The next step is to call a plumber for further assistance. You should also notify your local utility company.
