Tips to prevent & unfreeze frozen pipe-2024

• In case the pipe bursts, locate & shut off the main water shut-off valve.
• Insulate pipes in areas susceptible to freezing, particularly those near walls, crawl spaces, attics, and basements. This can be accomplished by utilizing a foam pipe cover available at any hardware or hardware store.
• Seal any air leaks in your home or garage to keep the chilly air out. Examine the areas surrounding windows and doors, as well as the electrical wires, dryer vents, and pipes.
• Outdoor faucets are the first to freeze. Remove all of the hoses, turn off the outdoor water supply, and shut off & empty the faucet.
• If your pipes frequently freeze, you may have an unnoticed problem. Consult a plumber about the best ways to secure your home.
• Customers who use commercial water – Encase with insulation to all lines exposed to the cold to protect fire protection lines.

Here is the video guide from the city of Toronto to prevent the plumbing system from freezing and quick remedy.

• Even while you’re not home, keep all parts of your home warm, especially near your water meter.
• Keep the garage door closed if you have a water pipe in it.
• Open the doors to the kitchen, bathroom, and linen closet to allow warm air to circulate around the piping infrastructure.

For long leave away from home:

• Close the main water supply valve to the internal line. It is typically found in the basement of the foundation wall, where the drinking water line enters your home. After closing the valve, open the subterranean cold-water faucet to drain any remaining water from the pipe.
• You might also want someone to check on your house on a regular basis.
• You can ensure the integrity of the system by running a pencil-thin stream of water.

If you turn on the faucet and the water does not flow out, your home’s pipes may be frozen. The following are the most likely places for frozen pipes:

• In front of the outside wall.
• The point at which the water supply pipe enters the house via the foundation wall.

Here are some suggestions and cautions for thawing frozen pipes.

Important note:

• Do not use direct flame burners to defrost pipes – the risk of fire.
• Check the position of the main water stop valve. If your pipe breaks, you should immediately turn off the water to your home until the pipe is repaired.

Steps to thaw frozen pipes

• • Switch on the basement faucet, preferably the cold water tap in the laundry room.
  • Increase the temperature of the home.
  • Heat a suspected frozen pipe by heating the surrounding air or directly applying heat. Electric heating pads, hair dryers, space heaters, and warm towels or rags are all options.
  • Never leave any electrical equipment unattended. Also, do not thaw frozen pipes using kerosene or propane heaters, charcoal fires, or open flames.
  • Depending on the ambient temperature and the degree of freezing in the pipe, the thawing procedure can take 1-6 hours. Once the pipe has melted, cautiously reintroduce water and inspect for cracks or leaks.
  • Hair dryer can be used if frozen pipe are easily accessible, this method is best for fixture frozen pipe

 Watch the Above video on how a hair dryer can help you out