How to Defrost Water Pipes That Have Been Frozen
As winter approaches, homeowners have cold-weather concerns. They put weather sealing plastic on the windows and bring out the shovels in anticipation of their winter duties. An often-overlooked problem during winter is frozen pipes. While prevention can save you some headaches, some common techniques have been established for defrosting water pipes that have become frozen. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
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Test the pipe for water flow. If the pipes are flowing and draining at all, allow them to at a safe amount. Flowing water through the pipes will assist in the defrosting process. Do not use hot water, for this can cause a quick fluctuation in temperature in the pipes, resulting in cracks and breakage.
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Plug in a space heater in the environment where you will be working. The heat from the space heater will have the dual benefit of increasing the thaw and making the working environment more comfortable. The increased room temperature will raise the heat of the pipes slowly, which is recommended over raising the temperature of the pipe too quickly.
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Drape hot towels over the frozen pipe. This method generally requires a group of three or more persons working as a team. Fill a large bucket with hot water. Drop towels into the hot water, then remove and ring out, getting as much water out as possible. Wrap sections of the frozen pipe with the towels, re-warming and replacing the towels as needed to maintain heat. If water is not available to warm the towels, a heating pad works just as well.
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Plug in an electric blow-dryer and direct hot air at the pipe. Alternate the heating spot, moving the hot airflow back and fourth along the pipe so you don't over heat a single spot. Other hot-air devices such as a heat gun also can work.
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Check for leaks in the pipe. As the water thaws and begins flowing, the pipe might begin leaking from cracks created from the freezing. Turn off the water supply to your house using the main valve if leaks are present. Depending on the severity of the leak, the pipe will need to be repaired or replaced immediately before freezing can occur again.
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Tips & Warnings
Prevent frozen pipes by insulating all exposed pipes in areas that freeze. Have a plumber inspect your pipes and offer recommendations on preventative maintenance.
Never use flaming devices such as candles, lighters or blow torches to thaw pipes. High direct heat can cause pipes to burst.
