How Do You Fix Frozen Pipes in Your Home?

Winter can be hard on your home, especially when temperatures drop low enough to freeze your pipes. Frozen pipes can disrupt your water supply and, if not handled properly, may lead to costly water damage. To help you deal with this problem, we’ve outlined steps for safely fixing frozen pipes, preventing them in the future, and knowing when to call experts.

If you’re not sure how to handle the issue, seeking help from trusted St. Catharines Plumbers, like A Rescue Rooter, can ensure your plumbing system is in the best hands.

Step 1: Locate the Frozen Pipe

The first step is identifying the frozen area of your plumbing. Signs of a frozen pipe include little to no water coming out of the faucet, visible frost on the pipe, or a pipe that feels unusually cold. Frozen pipes are most common in areas exposed to the cold, like basements, attics, or along exterior walls. If finding the problem seems overwhelming, A Rescue Rooter can take the guesswork out of the process.

Step 2: Turn Off the Water Supply

Once you locate the frozen pipe, it’s important to shut off the water supply to prevent flooding if the pipe bursts during thawing. Knowing how to turn off your main water valve is critical. If you’re unsure, a quick call to professionals in plumbing repairs St. Catharines can help.

Step 3: Safely Thaw the Pipe

When it comes to thawing frozen pipes, safety is crucial. Avoid using open flames like a torch, as this could damage the pipe or start a fire. Instead, try these methods:

• Hair Dryer: Start thawing near the faucet and work your way towards the frozen section to allow melted water to flow out.
• Warm Towels: Wrap the pipe with towels dipped in warm water and replace them as they cool.
• Space Heater: Place a small heater near the frozen pipe, being careful to keep it away from flammable materials.

Remember to leave the faucet open while thawing to relieve pressure in the pipe and allow water to escape.

Step 4: Check for Damage

Once the pipe is thawed, carefully inspect it for cracks or leaks that might have been caused by the ice. Even small cracks can lead to larger issues if left untreated. If you notice any damage, calling St. Catharines Plumbers like A Rescue Rooter is the best way to ensure repairs are done correctly.

Step 5: Prevent Future Freezing

Once your pipes are back to normal, consider taking steps to prevent this from happening again:

• Insulate exposed pipes to keep them warm during cold weather.
• Seal drafts around windows, doors, and walls near pipes.
• Leave cabinet doors open to allow warm air to circulate around under-sink pipes.
• During extremely cold nights, keep a small trickle of water flowing through vulnerable pipes to prevent freezing.

For comprehensive winter-proofing of your plumbing system, A Rescue Rooter can recommend the best solutions to keep your pipes safe.

When to Call the Professionals

There are times when fixing frozen pipes requires professional expertise. Call for help if:

• You can’t locate the frozen pipe.
• The pipe has burst.
• Thawing efforts don’t restore water flow.
• There are visible cracks or leaks in the pipe.

Experts in plumbing repairs St. Catharines, like A Rescue Rooter, are equipped to handle frozen pipes quickly and effectively. Their experience ensures a long-lasting fix, saving you from more extensive damage later on.

Count on Rescue Rooter for Expert Plumbing Services

Dealing with frozen pipes can be stressful, but A Rescue Rooter is here to make the process easier. With a team of skilled St. Catharines Plumbers, you can trust us to provide reliable and professional services. Whether it’s thawing frozen pipes, repairing burst ones, or preparing your system for winter, we’ve got you covered.

Don’t wait until a frozen pipe becomes a bigger problem. Contact A Rescue Rooter for the best plumbing services St. Catharines has to offer, and enjoy peace of mind knowing your home is protected throughout the winter season.