In our previous blogs, we’ve talked about how you can prevent your water pipes from freezing this winter. Unfortunately, sometimes water pipes have a mind of their own and freeze anyway.
So what do you do when your pipes have frozen? And is there a way to thaw them again?
5 Steps To Thaw Frozen Pipes
One of the most common signs you have a frozen pipe is when you turn on the faucet and only a little bit of water comes out. Here are five things you can do if you suspect frozen water pipes and no pipes have burst.
- Turn on the faucet. Even if a trickle of water is coming out through your frozen pipe, that water is still important in helping melt the ice in the pipe. What’s more, you want water to be able to flow through the pipe as you heat it.
- Safely apply heat to a section of the pipe. Use an electric heating pad to apply heat to a section of the frozen pipe. You can also use an electric hair dryer or portable space heater as long as they’re both safely kept away from flammable materials and water. You can also wrap the pipe in hot towels. Don’t attempt to use an open flame to heat the pipe; the high heat will damage it.
- Apply heat to the pipe until you’ve restored full water pressure. If you only apply the heat to the pipe until a small amount of water pressure is restored, the ice will continue to cause problems in the pipe.
- Use a hose clamp in case of an emergency. If a plumbing emergency occurs and one of the pipes begins to leak, use a hose clamp to keep the water from causing damage until you’re able to call a plumber.
- Contact a plumber. When you’re able to, contact a plumber to come to inspect your pipes. Many homeowners are unable to thaw their pipes on their own because they can’t locate the frozen area, the pipes are frozen in more than one spot, their pipes have burst, or the frozen areas aren’t accessible to them.
Looking for hose clamps for plumbing?
Hose clamps are often used as a replacement for duct tape, like heavy duty zip ties, and for good reason. Hose clamps for plumbing come in handy during emergencies such as frozen and busted water pipes.
Whether you’re looking for hose clamps for plumbing or different types of automotive hose clamps, Hose Clamp Kings is the place for you. To learn more about stainless steel hose clamps and how they can help in case of an emergency, contact Hose Clamp Kings today.
