How to Prevent Freezing Pipes in Extreme Cold

Frozen Pipes: A Costly Issue or a Preventable Problem?

Temperatures are dropping below 0 degrees this week, and it’s crucial for homeowners in the Chicago area to take necessary precautions to prevent a costly issue: frozen or bursting water pipes.

"A little prevention now can save you from costly repairs later," says a spokesperson for the Chicago Department of Water Management. Here are some preventative reminders to keep pipes from freezing or bursting:

• Keep proper heat levels in your home and warm air circulating wherever there are water pipes, especially underneath sinks.
• Run a trickle of cold water on each floor at points furthest from your main water service. Remember, moving water prevents freezing!
• Insulate your pipes, particularly those on the outside of the home.
• And if a pipe does freeze, never use an open flame to thaw it – use a hair dryer instead!

Identifying Frozen Pipes

If you think your pipes may be frozen, here are some signs to look out for:

• Little to no running water from your faucets
• Cracks or bulges in the pipes
• Heavy condensation or frost on the outside of your pipes
• Whistling, gurgling, or banging sounds coming from your pipes
• Puddles, water spots, or water rings on walls or ceilings
• A bad smell coming from drains or faucets

Thawing Frozen Pipes

It can take up to 45 minutes to unfreeze pipes, depending on the weather. Here’s what to do if you suspect your pipes are frozen:

1. Turn on the faucet: Keep it running. Allowing the faucet to drip even slightly can help prevent a pipe from bursting. When freezing takes place, extreme pressure builds between the faucet and the ice blockage. An open faucet can relieve this pressure buildup, and help prevent a burst from occurring.
2. Apply heat to the frozen area: Slowly apply heat using a hair dryer. There are several ways to do this. You can wrap the pipes in thermostatically controlled heat tape, or you can use an external heat source such as a hair dryer or space heater. Do not use a propane torch as this can damage the pipe and create a fire risk.
3. Continue to apply heat: Don’t stop heating until the full water pressure is restored. Even then, it’s a good idea to leave the faucet open for a few minutes after the pipe is thawed. This will give the ice time to completely clear from the line.
4. Check all faucets and prevent pipes from freezing in the future: Check each faucet in your home for any other frozen pipes. One frozen pipe may mean that others have been affected as well. If the problem persists, contact a plumber. You can prevent pipes from freezing again by taking a few simple steps:

FAQs

Q: What are some common causes of frozen pipes?
A: Insufficient insulation, poor home maintenance, and extreme weather conditions can all contribute to frozen pipes.

Q: How long does it take to unfreeze pipes?
A: It can take up to 45 minutes, depending on the weather.

Q: What are some ways to prevent pipes from freezing in the future?
A: Insulate your pipes, keep your home warm, and run a trickle of cold water on each floor at points furthest from your main water service.

Q: What should I do if I suspect my pipes are frozen?
A: Follow the steps outlined above, and contact a plumber if the problem persists.