When the temperatures dip in winter, the water in your pipes can freeze, potentially causing a pipe burst that damages your property.
Do you believe you have a frozen pipe? We can help.
Let’s explore how to safeguard your property and thaw frozen water pipes.
Locate the Frozen Pipe
The first step to begin the thawing process is to find the frozen pipe. The exposed pipes under sinks and in basements may show signs of freezing on the outer layer of the structure.
Open the Faucets
Leave the faucets slightly open so that running water mixes with the ice in the pipes. Opening the faucets increases your chance of thawing the blockage quickly.
Heat Frozen Pipes with a Hairdryer
If you have found the frozen area of the water pipe, begin blasting the area with warm heat from a hairdryer. Blasting the area with warm air can help loosen any frozen material and quickly thaw the ice.
Apply Electrical Heat Tape
After you’ve tried to thaw the pipe with a hairdryer, you might try applying heat tape. Wrap the tape in a single layer around the frozen pipe and then connect the material to a power source.
Use Space Heaters
Heat the surrounding area of the room to thaw the frozen part of your pipe. Place heat lamps and space heaters next to the frozen pipe to raise the ambient temperature.
Prevent the heater and the pipe from touching to avoid structural damage.
Wrap the Pipe in Hot Towels
You may find you can quickly thaw a frozen pipe with a towel soaked in hot water. Wear protective rubber gloves, then soak towels in hot water. Wrap the towels around the frozen pipe, replacing the towels every ten minutes until the thawing begins. Remember to remove the towel before it cools.
Add Salt to Frozen Drains
Salt helps lower the melting point of ice, so you can add salt to frozen drains to help speed up the thawing process. Start with just a tablespoon of salt. Then leave the area to warm for a few hours.
Call a Professional to Fix Long-Term Pipe Problems
Don’t try to fix structural issues without expert help. If you notice a pipe is damaged, you’ll need qualified assistance. You might try everything we suggest here and find that you’re unable to thaw your frozen pipes.
Our experts at Roto-Rooter High Desert have decades of experience helping homeowners across Victorville, Apple Valley, and Hesperia fix frozen pipes. We offer 24/7 services for homeowners throughout the region.
To speak to a qualified plumber today, please call our offices.
