How to Thaw Buried Water Pipes
When the temperature dips in the winter months, it's very possible the ground will get cold enough to freeze buried pipes. When this occurs, the ice in the pipes will add extra pressure, which can cause them to crack and rupture. Since the re-installation of outdoor pipes can be costly and time-consuming, it is vital that immediate steps are taken to thaw pipes that freeze Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- Electric pipe thawer
- Shovel
- Pick
- 115-volt standard electrical outlet
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Instructions
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Dig up the area around both ends of the pipe with a shovel. If there is ice or if the dirt is hard, use the pick to loosen it. Be careful not to hit the pipe.
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Attach the pipe-thawer cables to either end of the pipe. Be sure they are securely fastened.
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Plug the machine into the outlet and turn it on. The machine will create an electric current that will slowly heat up the pipe and melt the ice inside.
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Let the machine run for about 10 minutes to ensure that the pipe is thoroughly thawed. Shut off the machine and unplug it.
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Unfasten the connectors from the pipe and fill the holes back with the dirt. Run the water from those pipes just to be sure that everything is thawed out.
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Tips & Warnings
If you have a long section of frozen pipe, you may want to try thawing it in sections. This way, the current isn't running over a long distance.
These machines are expensive ($600 to $800, as of 2009). Unless you will need to thaw pipes often, it may be better and cheaper to rent one when needed.
You are using electricity near water, so be as careful as possible not to shock yourself while performing this activity. Do not touch the connectors if the machine is still plugged in.
