No one wants to discover in the morning that the pipe has burst in the middle of a severe freeze. Everyone will cringe at the sound of a pipe burst and water gushing through your house.
Pipe bursting occurs when fluids inside pipes freeze and expand, exerting pressure beyond the pipe’s tolerance. This is why it is essential to take quick action before the damages spiral out of proportion and the fixes become expensive.
Wondering what to do when pipe are frozen? In this blog, Dript will explore the common causes of frozen pipes and their solutions.
Common Causes of Frozen Pipes
There are many reasons as to why the pipes might freeze. Let’s dive in.
Extreme Cold Temperatures
This is most unfortunate, for the extreme cold can affect the pipes if they are not well insulated, leading to freezing. In Canada, where winters can be harsh, it’s crucial to understand what temp do pipes freeze. Pipes can start freezing when temperatures fall to 20°F (-6°C) or lower, common during Canadian cold snaps. The ice inside the pipe increases the water quantity and pressure in the walls of a pipe, which results in the pipe bursting or cracking.
Inadequate Insulation
Pipes that are concealed in areas poorly insulated, like crawl spaces or walls, will likely freeze. This risk can only be reduced by insulating or wrapping the pipes with foam covers and using heat tape.
Water Leaks
Studies show that pipe freeze is the cause of more than 250 thousand cases of water damage in the United States per year. The water line can be caused even by a small leakage in your plumbing. A trickle or a tiny crack can let cold air into the piping system, increasing the likelihood of frozen pipes. Furthermore, leaks affect water pressure, making pipes more susceptible to freezing due to the reduced water flow.
Improperly Drained Pipes
Pipes that do not get sufficient water flow, such as a summer house or garden hose, may freeze because they have been unused for some time. These pipes should also be emptied to the last drop to avoid freezing during winter.
Power Outages
Heating systems stop when the power supply is interrupted, making your home vulnerable to cold. Pipes installed adjacent to exterior walls or in any house area that is not regularly heated may burst. It is always wise to have a contingency heating plan or another insulation safeguard for pipes in case of prolonged power loss.
Signs of Frozen Pipes
Water line frozen? Here are the most common indicators that your pipes might be freezing.
Cold Spots on Walls or Ceilings
It’s also essential to monitor walls and ceilings; if there are cold spots in some areas, pipes behind them start freezing. These areas may be more relaxed to the touch or feel than the rest.
Lack of Water Pressure
The earliest indication that a pipe has become frozen is when one experiences low water pressure or no water flow at all. This is because the frozen water prevents the smooth flow, and when the issue is left unnoticed, the pipe is likely to burst when pressure has built up.
Discolored Water
If you open the faucet and the water has a brown or yellowish hue, a partially frozen pipe may push rust or debris through the water as the ice melts. This indicates that your pipes have difficulty working and could soon break down.
Unusual Noises from Pipes
In addition, it is alarming if you are experiencing strange sounds such as banging, rattling, and whistling from your pipes. These noises occur when water flows through it and hits a narrow passage or a layer of ice or simply as water changes pressure, which is weird and loudly announced.
Steps to Take When Pipes Freeze
Follow these actions to deal with frozen pipes and restore normal water flow safely.
Isolate the Frozen Area
It is essential to stop water from running in the pipes if they expand due to heat. Identify your main water shut-off valve in the affected area and close it to avert further damage.
Locate the Frozen Section
After switching off the water supply, look for the frozen part of the pipe. This is usually visible in areas that feel cold to the touch or where there is no water flow. Potential problem areas include pipes installed near exterior walls, basement, or attics.
Apply Heat
After identifying the frozen pipe, heat it slowly using a hairdryer or a heat gun. Be sure to warm the side closer to the faucet and heat it towards the other side. You can also put insulation called heat tape around the pipe or have a space heater nearby. Do not use an open flame, which could harm the pipe or cause a fire.
Check for Leaks
After defrosting the pipe, examine it properly to check for any cracks or leakage. Drains are not always large, so there may be chances that the leakage is not easily visible, so it is better to be vigilant while the material is thawing. If you see any leaks, you must fix them or contact a plumber to do the work.
Restore Water Supply
After you are sure the pipe is no longer frozen and intact, gradually open the water valve. Slowly turn on the water in the region and inspect all pipes for any signs of leakage. Check the pressure and ensure water flows smoothly through the pipe.
Preventative Measures
Here are some practical steps to protect your plumbing during the winter months.
Insulate Exposed Pipes
To learn how to keep pipes from freezing without heat, consider insulating exposed pipes and allowing them to drip during cold weather to maintain water flow. Wrapping any exposed pipe with insulation is the best way to avoid pipe freezing. If pipes are exposed to cool temperatures, foam insulation, fibreglass sleeves, or pipe wraps should be used to prevent freezing.
Drain Pipes Before Extreme Cold Weather
Pipes that are not used frequently, like outdoor faucets or garden hoses, should be drained before freezing temperatures occur. This step is vital for vacation homes or regions that are not heated.
Keep Garage Doors Closed
If your home has water supply lines passing through the garage, it is essential to shut the garage doors during freezing nights. Cold air circulating inside, especially at night and early morning, makes it easier for the temperatures to go low, thus affecting pipes and causing them to freeze.
Let Faucets Drip a Slow Stream of Water
During extremely low temperatures, it is advisable to monitor water supply pipes and let the taps run gradually. A slow flow of water prevents stagnation in the pipelines and increases the chances of ice formation.
Consider Installing Heat Cables
The most preventative measure for pipes in specific hazard-prone areas is the application of heat cables or heat tape. These devices can be wrapped around pipes to provide a perpetual heat source and ensure they do not freeze. Heat cables are handy in circumstances where exposed pipes are standard.
Monthly Inspections To Prevent Freezing Issues
Regular monthly inspections are crucial to catch early signs of pipe freezing before they become significant issues. At Dript, we recommend checking for leaks, cracks, and proper insulation on exposed pipes throughout the colder months. Our expert team is available to assist with inspections and maintenance to keep your plumbing in top shape all winter long.
Emergency Situations
When pipes freeze, things can get worse, leading to urgent emergencies. Here’s how to handle the most critical situations when dealing with frozen pipes.
Burst Pipes
If a pipe bursts, turn off the primary water source to avoid excessive water damage and flooding of the premises. Call a plumber immediately to determine the problem’s severity and fix the leakage.
Water Damage
Pat dry the affected area with towels, fans, or dehumidifiers, and dispose of any soaked item. If the damage is severe, seek professional service.
Power Outages
Studies reveal that, according to the Vancouver Fire Department, more than 1,500 Vancouver residents were without power in 2017 after a transformer blew at Alberni Street and Bidwell.
When a power outage occurs during freezing temperatures, your pipes are at a higher risk of freezing. If things get out of hand, seek assistance from professionals.
Conclusion
Water damage and costly repairs are consequences of neglect and not addressing the pipe issue promptly. However, knowing the causes and reactions that can prevent you from such outcomes is crucial. In case of frozen or burst pipes, immediate action should be taken to avoid more damage.
You can always turn to Dript Plumbing and Heating for any professional assistance. Whether you require immediate plumbing frozen pipes or want to insulate your house to avoid freezing, our team will be happy to help you. Call us today to secure your plumbing and protect your home all winter!
FAQs
How To Stop Pipes From Freezing?
Wrap pipes, particularly those exposed to cold weather, for insulation, and let a steady stream of water run from the faucet to avoid freezing.
How Do You Fix A Frozen Pipe?
Shut off the water supply, carefully melt the pipe using a hairdryer or towels, and gradually return the water to the pipe so it does not continue to burst.