Pipes don’t always freeze. But, when they do, they can cause a number of problems.
The most vulnerable pipes are those found in the outer walls of the home, uninsulated pipes, and pipes secured in the basement, attic, or unheated garage. Those manufactured from galvanized steel or copper are particularly prone to freezing and water damage.
Here are some tips on how to deal with frozen pipes, how to spot the signs that your pipes could be frozen, and some practical prevention strategies.
The Dangers of Frozen Pipes
There are a couple of dangers of frozen pipes you should be aware of. First, when the water pipes freeze, they reduce water flow. If the ice blocks major sections of the pipe, then you won’t have water supply, possibly for days.
If you don’t take care of your frozen pipes, there’s an increased risk of property damage. For example, a pipe can burst and water may start leaking. The more water leaks, the bigger the water damage to your home, valuables, and other personal belongings.
Repairing frozen pipes, flood control, and cleaning up the house after a flood costs a lot of money. So, it is critical to try and recognize the signs early on and prevent your pipes from freezing if you want to avoid unnecessary expenses.
Then there is mold. Too much mold can be a health concern, particularly when you breathe in the mold spores for a very long time. It can spread behind the walls and into the ductwork, which can be difficult to find and get rid of.
Warning Signs of Frozen Pipes
It is normal for a partly frozen pipe to emit banging, clanging, or gurgling sounds as the ice tries to thaw. This means that the water is struggling to flow properly. But, there are other signs your pipes could be frozen that you should pay attention to, such as:
No Water
The most obvious sign of frozen pipes is a lack of water coming out of your faucet. This means there is no dribble or poor water flow. Instead, there is no actual running water, which is a clear indicator that the water is frozen solid.
Water Damage
Water damage from frozen pipes can take on different forms. For instance, you might notice dirt-like stains in your home in close proximity to the pipes. The wallpaper or paint might start to peel off or bubble, and the ceilings or walls might develop some structural damage, such as sagging.
Visible Frost
If there is some frost on the outside of the pipes or close to the faucet, this is a red flag that your pipes might be frozen. The faucet and pipes will feel very cold to the touch. There can also be some condensation, which tends to affect the surrounding area.
Smells Coming from the Drain
A frozen pipe can smell very unusual, similar to sewage or a drain. The bigger the blockage from the frozen water, the stronger the odor. That’s because the bad smell has nowhere to go but up your drain and into your house.
How to Thaw a Frozen Pipe
So how do you unfreeze the pipes? Thawing the pipes is a gradual and slow process. Applying too much heat too quickly can make the pipe burst, so here’s how to make it work.
For thawing exposed pipes, you can use a hairdryer, space heater, or heat tape. These options can work on pipes in your kitchen cabinet, attic, basement, or vanity. By moving the hairdryer up and down the pipe, you can regulate the heat and slowly defrost the pipe.
To use a space heater, place it close to the pipe and let it provide gradual warmth. This is an effective method for enclosed areas. Heat tape is another option for warming frozen pipes. You wrap it around the pipe and let it defrost on low heat. This is a good option when you are on a busy schedule.
Frozen Pipe Prevention
To keep the pipes from freezing, add water heater and pipe insulation, keep your home warm, and fix any drafts that might expose the pipes to cold temperatures.
Contact professional plumbing, like Green Group LLC in Middle Tennessee, for regular maintenance to keep pipes in perfect shape.
