How to Fix Frozen Washing Machine Pipes

Frozen washing machine pipes typically occur due to a lack of prevention. Preventative measures are highly preferable to having to thaw the pipes out after they have frozen. However, in some areas, freezing weather may be a surprise and in others, folks may become complacent, thinking, "It will never happen to me." There are a variety of ways to effectively thaw frozen pipes.

Things You'll Need

• Bucket
• Towels
• Propane torch
• Hair dryer
• Heating pad
• Heat lamps

Instructions

How to fix frozen washing machine pipes

1. Turn off the water supply at the main shutoff valve. Open the faucet located nearest to the frozen pipe to allow the water to drain as it thaws.

2. Set out a bucket at the end of the pipe, and towels along it, so that the released water will be contained. Work from the faucet towards the frozen area to reduce the chances of the pipe bursting.

3. Hold a propane torch about 6 to 9 inches away from the pipe, slowly move the torch back and forth along the pipe until it starts to thaw. Be careful to maintain a safe distance between the flame and the pipe---at least 6 inches.

4. Wave a hair dryer gently back and forth the length of the pipe.

5. Wrap a length of the pipe with a hot water heating pad.

6. Place a heat lamp approximately 8 inches away from the wall in the area of the frozen pipe. This works for pipes that remain hidden behind walls.

References

• allabouthome.com