by One of the issues typical for the winter season is the freezing of pipes, a common issue in houses without adequate insulation. Apart from restricting the water supply, frozen pipes cause problems of burst pipes, which pose a major threat to the water supply and can lead to water supply floods. In this article, we will examine the procedures concerning thawing frozen pipes, correctly identifying when it is appropriate to call a plumber, and the correct procedure in the event of a freeze.
Signs of frozen pipes
In trying to warm up the pipes, it is necessary to know that the cause of the problem is as a result of freezing. These include the absence of water supply from one or more taps, pipe sections visibly frozen with frost and ice, pipes with a great amount of ice on them, a drop in temperature in the rooms where the pipes are located, and deformation or cracks which could be as a result of freezing. In case of these, it becomes paramount that appropriate action is taken to avoid more damage and possible harm.
How to properly thaw frozen pipes
1. Open the tap
The first step is to turn on the faucet associated with the frozen pipe. This will allow the water that begins to melt to drain freely, thus relieving the pressure in the pipe from building up to the level of bursting.
2. Locate the freeze point.
Find out where the pipe has formed the layer of ice. The buildup of condensation commonly happens in areas unaffected in terms of cold, such as the basement, the garage, the attic, or exterior walls.
3. Use a heat source
Choose safe ways to heat the pipe:
Hair dryer: Direct warm air is placed in the frozen area, gradually warming it up.
Electric heater: Place it next to the frozen pipe.
Hot towels: Soak a towel in warm water, wring it out, and wrap it around the frozen area.
4. Move toward the heat.
Begin heating from the area closest to the faucet, gradually moving toward the freezing point. This will help prevent additional pressure from building up in the pipe.
5. Check the results
Check regularly to see if water starts to flow from the tap. This indicates that the frozen area has melted.
What not to do
- Do not use an open flame. Using a blowtorch or candles can damage the pipe and cause a fire.
- Do not leave heating appliances unattended. This can be dangerous, especially in confined spaces.
- Do not attempt to heat the pipe to high temperatures immediately. Sudden temperature changes can cause rupture.
When should I call a plumber?
When to call a plumber depends on the degree to which one can identify and handle the problem independently. If a freeze is detected and you feel that your skills are inadequate or you cannot find where the freezing occurs, it is wise to call a professional. An experienced plumber will easily notice the problem and perform the needed repairs advertisedly and efficiently. When a pipe has already burst due to freezing, the arrangement for a plumber’s service becomes paramount. This is something only a specialist can check to establish the severity, do some work in fixing or replacing the pipe, and avoid further issues. Furthermore, if safe heating methods do not open the water supply, then the problem might be more serious than it seems at first glance, and it is better to call the specialists. For long-term prevention, a plumber Cobourg can provide solutions such as insulating pipes or installing heating cables to safeguard against future freezing issues, ensuring your system remains functional and protected.
What to do after the freeze is eliminated?
1. Check the condition of the pipes
Inspect the pipes for cracks, leaks, or other damage. If any, call a plumber to replace or repair them.
2. Insulate the pipes
Wrap the pipes with insulation or special materials to prevent future freezing.
3. Control the room temperature
Keep the temperature in the rooms where the pipes run above freezing.
4. Schedule regular system inspections
Regular inspections of the pipeline by professional plumbers will help identify and fix potential problems promptly.
Conclusion
Frozen pipes require immediate attention, as delay can lead to serious damage and costly repairs. Self-defrosting is only possible if you follow safe methods and if the pipes are not damaged. However, to prevent repeated freezing in complicated cases, you should always contact a professional plumber. They will help you solve the problem quickly and efficiently and provide recommendations to avoid similar situations in the future.
