How to Thaw Frozen Pipes in a Mobile Home

Protect your mobile home by thawing frozen pipes.

Frozen pipes can cause serious problems for homeowners. Because water expands when it freezes, it can cause a pipe to rupture. You will be unable to detect any possible leaks until the pipe is thawed, as ice does not leak. When the ice melts, you'll have a mess on your hands. While thawing a frozen pipe is a fairly simple task, understand some basic safety rules. Never use a blowtorch, a propane heater or any other device with an open flame.

Things You'll Need

• Heat tape
• Towels
• Hot water
• Hair dryer

Instructions

1. Turn the faucet that is connected to the frozen pipe to the "on" position. This will allow melted water and steam to escape the pipe.

2. Wrap heat tape around the frozen pipe. This is the slowest method of thawing a frozen pipe; however, because it works gradually, it will reduce possible damage to the pipe. According to My Great Home, you should use only heat tape that is certified for mobile homes.

3. Use a few layers of towels wrapped around the pipe if you do not have heat tape. Pour hot water over the towels. You may need to repeat this multiple times to completely thaw the pipe.

4. Aim a hair dryer at the frozen pipe. Slowly apply heat down the length of pipe until it is thawed.

Tips & Warnings

• If you're having trouble finding the frozen pipe or obtaining access to it, call a plumber.

• If the pipe is close to a gas pipe, do not apply direct heat. Have a professional address the problem.

• Do not double-wrap heat tape. If it is wrapped back over itself, it may start a fire due to overheating.

References

• My Great Home: Frozen Pipes
• American Red Cross: Preventing and Thawing Frozen Pipes

Resources

• ServiceMagic: What Do I Do For Frozen Pipes?