Mistakes To Avoid When Unfreezing A Water Pipe

Some parts of the country are seeing extremely cold temperatures right now, and this means that your plumbing system may be stressed significantly by the weather. In this situation, you may notice your pipes starting to freeze, and frozen pipes are prone to breaks and leaks. So, if you notice that you have frozen pipes, then it is in your best interest to unfreeze them as soon as possible. However, many people make mistakes when trying to free the ice from their plumbing system. Keep reading to learn about a few of these mistakes and how they can be avoided.

Mistake — Using A Torch

One of the easiest and simplest ways to attend to a frozen pipe is to simply warm it to melt the ice. You may think that the best solution is the fastest one, but this is not true. If you quickly melt the ice, then you are likely to melt around the edges of the ice chunk. This can and will send the freed ice chunk flying through your plumbing system once water pressure returns. The ice will hit the nearest elbow or end of the plumbing piece, which could cause the pipe to burst. 

It is wise to slowly melt the ice instead. This will help to keep the ice piece from moving. Instead, it will melt uniformly and disappear. So, stay away from torches and other heat sources that will heat the pipe quickly. Torches also have been known to cause fires when used for the purpose of thawing pipes. 

You should instead use a space heater in front of the frozen pipe. A hair dryer or heat gun will work as well. Heat tape and heated towels can be used safely on the frozen area as well.

Mistake — Pouring Hot Water On The Pipe

Some people decide to pour hot water on frozen water pipes. However, if you do this, then you can cause the pipe to crack and burst under the thermal pressure. Pipes that are frozen will already be placed under a great deal of stress, and the extra pressure may be too much for the pipe to handle. 

You also should also not use any tools to break or chip ice away from the outside of the pipe, and hitting the pipe itself will do nothing to release the frozen water inside. 

You should do everything in your power to release pressure from the pipe. Along with using gentle warming methods, turn on one or several faucets that are attached to the frozen pipe. This will help to draw water away from the pipe as soon as the frozen part starts to melt. 

Contact a company that offers plumbing services in your area for additional advice.

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