What Can I Do When the Pipes in My Home Freeze in Mundelein?

12/12/2023 (Permalink)

We restore water damage 365 days a year in Lake County.

Do you know what to do if you have a frozen pipe situation? Our local Mundelein and North Wauconda teams respond to water damage emergencies caused by frozen pipes often during the winter months. Thawing frozen pipes is a crucial step in preventing pipe damage and restoring water flow in your home during cold weather. Here are the steps you can take to thaw frozen pipes safely:

Identify the Frozen Pipe

Determine which pipe is frozen. Usually, frozen pipes are found in unheated areas like basements, crawl spaces, or exterior walls. Look for areas where there is no water flow or where the pipe feels extremely cold to the touch.

Turn Off the Water Supply

Before attempting to thaw the pipe, turn off the water supply to prevent any leaks or bursts when the ice thaws. Locate the main water shutoff valve and close it.

Open Faucets

Open both the hot and cold faucets connected to the affected pipe. This will relieve pressure in the system and allow water to flow once the pipe is thawed.

Apply Heat

There are several methods to safely apply heat to thaw a frozen pipe. Some common methods include:

Hair Dryer: Use a hair dryer on the highest setting to warm the area around the frozen pipe. Start from the faucet end and work your way toward the frozen section.

Heat Lamp: Place a heat lamp near the frozen pipe, keeping it a safe distance away to avoid fire hazards.

Heat Tape: If you have heat tape or heat cables, wrap them around the frozen pipe and follow the manufacturer's instructions.

Electric Space Heater: Position an electric space heater in the vicinity of the frozen pipe. Never leave the heater unattended and follow safety precautions.

Apply Towels or Rags

To help distribute heat evenly and insulate the pipe, wrap towels or rags soaked in warm water around the frozen area.

Be Patient

Thawing a frozen pipe can take some time. Be patient and continue applying heat until the water starts flowing again. Do not use open flames or a propane torch, as they can damage the pipe or create a fire hazard.

Check for Leaks

Once the pipe has thawed, check for any leaks or cracks. If you find any, turn off the water supply and repair or replace the damaged section of the pipe.

Insulate and Prevent Future Freezing

After successfully thawing the pipe, insulate it and the surrounding area to prevent future freezing. Use foam pipe insulation, heat tape, or other appropriate materials.

Turn the Water Supply Back On

Once the pipe is thawed and you've checked for leaks, turn the water supply back on gradually. Open the faucets one at a time to allow air to escape and prevent water hammer.

Monitor for a While

Keep an eye on the pipes and faucets for a little while to ensure that water is flowing freely and there are no additional issues.

If you are unable to locate the frozen pipe, or if you encounter difficulties while attempting to thaw it, it's best to call a service professional to avoid potential damage or further complications.

Call Us Today!

When your home or commercial business in Mundelein has frozen pipe damage, our local Mundelein and North Wauconda teams are Here to Help. ® We’ll restore your water damage “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 224-372-7064. 

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