Springtime always brings a happy return of more sunshine and warmer days, but it can also bring some incidents that may leave you scratching your head and wondering what to do. The case of frozen pipes is a common conundrum. Frozen pipes that you forgot to thaw in winter will remain to be your problem in spring. Unless given proper attention, they can lead to costly burst pipes in your home. Here are some tips on how to thaw frozen pipes and prevent expensive water loss in your property:
Let the water run
Let the water run to thaw frozen pipes. If you suspect frozen pipes in your building and are waiting for plumbing service, turn on the faucet farthest from the cold spot. The warmer water running through the pipes will help melt the ice on its way out of your home.
Use a hairdryer
Before you call the plumber and pay expensive per hour fees, you should try thawing your pipes with a hairdryer. This simple method can save you hundreds of dollars in plumbing fees, and you can even do it yourself! It is easier than you think.
To thaw frozen pipes using a hairdryer, first, you need to locate the frozen section of the pipe. Turn on the hairdryer and direct it to the frozen section of the pipe until thawed.
Cover a frozen pipe with electrical heating tape
Electrical heating tape is the ideal tool for thawing frozen pipes. It uses electricity to generate heat and can be wrapped around water pipes in order to create steam. This allows trapped rainfall or snowmelt to flow freely, preventing flooding and water damage.
Warming your pipes with electrical heating tape is not only the safest way to thaw frozen pipes, but it is also the quickest and easiest method. Be sure to read the installation instructions that come with the heating tape before installing.
Place a heat lamp near the frozen pipe
While there are many ways to thaw frozen pipes, using a heat lamp is one of the most successful ways without having to stop water flow through the pipe. It is really simple. Just hang the heat lamp above the frozen area and wait for the pipe to thaw. No need to call the plumber or tear up your walls looking for the frozen spot. Do not forget to keep an extra heat lamp in your garage in case a pipe does freeze. They really are a must-have when the temperatures drop below freezing!
Wrap a hot towel around the pipe
If you are waiting for the ice in your pipes to melt, here is what you can do in the meantime. Simply put towels in a sink and run hot water over them. Then place it as close to the pipe as possible without getting it wet. The heat coming from the towel should prevent it from freezing. Just make sure to wear gloves if your pipe is already frozen because the towel may be very hot!
Turn the heat up in your home
Another way to keep your pipes from freezing is to turn up the heat in your home. Try to keep the temperature above 55 degrees Fahrenheit (13 degrees Celsius), as long as you are able to remain safe and healthy. While it seems like an extra expense, this could be a lot less stressful than dealing with damage to your home.
Ask for the help of professionals: Call a licensed plumber now
If your pipes are frozen solid, and you are unable to thaw them yourself, it is time to call in a professional. Calling a plumber may cost you several hundred bucks, but it could save you from thousands of dollars worth of water damage. Whether you need residential or commercial plumbing repairs, only trust a licensed and skilled contractor to handle the job for you. Call the pros today to book a plumbing service!
