Cold Weather in Macomb County = Frozen Pipes:
How do you take the Cold Out!
A good friend asked me “is this an arctic hurricane like the media describes?” I’m not so sure. Even at 0 degrees with a -30 wind chill, it seems like it always gets this cold during the winter in Michigan. I think it was colder when we were kids, you know we walked 20 miles in the snow to get to school. Nonetheless each year we see the same dilemmas that happen when the weather gets chilly. Surprisingly, one of the most common problems that homeowners face this time of year is frozen water pipes. If you know of anyone that is in this predicament right now like I do, be sure to pass along this information to safely get their pipes thawed:
What should you do if a water pipe freezes? You should make sure it never happens again! When the water freezes, it tries to expand inside the pipe. It pushes against the sides of the pipe, as well as any nearby valves, seams and faucets. The freezing action of the water is more than capable of rupturing any pipe.
Unfortunately, a water pipe may freeze even if you have taken precautions. Whatever the cause, it’s important that you thaw out your pipe for two reasons:
- You almost certainly need the water.
- You should be at home when the pipe thaws, just in case the pipe and/or joint is ruptured.
Bear in mind that a frozen pipe doesn’t leak – the water is ice. You’ll discover you have a leak only after the ice melts. If you’re not home, a ruptured pipe can cause a great deal of damage. The pressure causes cracks, and even a small one can leak 250 gallons in a day
Here are some methods to thaw out frozen pipes:
CAUTION!: Before you try any of these methods, first open the faucet the frozen pipe supplies, second know where your main water shot-off is in your home. The steam you create while heating the pipe can burst the pipe if it doesn’t have an escape, and if you have cracks or holes in your pipe ypu will want to shut the water off.
Method #1: Use electric heat tape on the pipe, and wait for it to thaw out. This is a good method to use because it slowly thaws the pipe, which means it reduces wear and tear on the pipe itself.
CAUTION!: Remember to use only heat tape certified by a nationally recognized testing laboratory for use with mobile homes. Be careful never to wrap the heat tape back over itself. This could cause the heat tape to overheat and start a fire.
Method #2: Wrap the pipe with several layers of cloth or toweling and pour hot water over the cloth / toweling. Repeat several times until the pipe is unfrozen.
Method #3: Direct a heat lamp on the pipe itself. Place the lamp at least a foot away from the pipe. Cover adjacent areas with a layer of aluminum foil so the heat does not scorch these materials. Make sure the heat lamp is on dry ground. Even better, plug it into a ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) outlet.
CAUTION!: Do not use any direct heating method if the frozen pipe is next to a gas pipe! Call a professional for help.
Method #4: Hold a hand-operated hair dryer to the pipe, and slowly move up and down the length of the frozen section. Make sure you are standing on dry ground. Because you are working this close to water, plug the dryer into a GFCI protected outlet.
You will know the pipe is thawed out when water starts to trickle out of the open faucet. Let the water run for a while to completely clear the pipe. Then, close the faucet and check for leaks.
CAUTION!: Do not use a propane torch to thaw out frozen pipes. Do not use a propane torch even if it has a fire spreader attachment. This is not only a fire hazard, but it’s also a quick way to destroy your plastic plumbing pipes.
Looking out for you
We want you to be safe in your home and prevention is the key. For more safety information, or a no-obligation quote, give us a call. We can also help recommend a few restoration contractors if the water was running for some time.