Baby, it’s cold outside. And about to get colder. Just in case you didn’t get those pipes wrapped and insulated before the hard freeze, here are some tips on thawing them out.
Did you know that ice doesn’t cause a pipe to break? Rather, it’s water pressure that increases as ice expands inside the pipe. So the pipe doesn’t usually burst where it’s frozen. That’s why it’s a good idea to leave a faucet dripping if you think there is any risk of pipes freezing. The pipe may freeze, but the pressure will be relieved and keep the pipe from bursting.
If the pipe does burst, should you repair or replace it? Pinholes and hairline cracks can usually be patched. For a temporary fix, electrical or duct tape may hold a pinhole, if it is tightly wound around the pipe. Be sure to overlap the tape and wrap several inches beyond the leak for a good seal. Hairline cracks that are 2” or less may be fixed with a pipe clamp.
These clamps, lined with rubber, can be fitted around the pipe and secured with a bolt and nut. There are some fiberglas tapes available that wrap around the pipe and harden when dampened.
Much of the plumbing pipe in our area is PVC. This “plastic” pipe is easily replaced in most situations. Using a hack saw or pipe-cutting pliers, just cut out the frozen section and glue in a new one. Be sure to remove pipe well away from the frozen area, as PVC can swell up for quite a distance. If you don’t go far enough back, the new couplings will not fit on the pipe. You may be able to cap non-essential PVC lines and return to the problem when the weather warms up.
If you decide to thaw a pipe that has frozen but not burst, be sure to cut off the water supply. There are many techniques for thawing a pipe, and if you use anything that requires electricity be extremely careful to avoid shock or fire.
Be sure to re-insulate any pipes that you work on. For a spring project, work on better insulating any potential problem areas. Also, you might install water valves in key places so that you don’t have to disrupt water service to your entire home in the case of a freeze.
Remember, help is just around the corner at your local hardware store.
