What Can I Do If the Pipes Freeze in My New Baltimore Home?

11/27/2023 (Permalink)

We are leaders in water damage restoration services in Macomb County.

Our local Mount Clemens and New Baltimore teams have many years of experience mitigating and restoring frozen pipe damage. Here are some things you can do if your pipes freeze:

Turn off the Water Supply: Locate your main water shut-off valve and turn it off immediately. This will prevent additional water from flowing into the frozen pipes and reduce the risk of a burst pipe once it thaws.

Open Faucets: Open all the faucets connected to the frozen pipes. This will relieve pressure in the system and allow water to escape when the pipes thaw. Start with the faucets closest to the frozen area and work your way outward.

Apply Heat: The goal is to gently thaw the frozen pipes. There are several methods you can use:

Hairdryer or Heat Gun: Aim the warm air at the frozen section of the pipe, moving it back and forth. Start from the faucet end and work your way toward the frozen area. Keep the dryer or gun at a safe distance to prevent overheating or damage.

Heating Pad or Towels: Wrap the frozen pipe with a heating pad or towels soaked in hot water. This can help gradually thaw the pipe.

Space Heater: If the frozen pipes are in an enclosed space, you can use a space heater to raise the temperature in the room. Be cautious with space heaters and follow safety guidelines.

Hot Water Soak: You can gently pour hot (not boiling) water over the frozen section of the pipe. Start at the faucet end and continue until the water flows freely.

Never use an open flame, propane torch, or other high-heat sources to thaw pipes, as this can create a fire hazard.

Check for Leaks: While thawing the pipes, be prepared for leaks. Have a bucket, towels, or containers ready to catch any water that may start to flow or leak from the pipes.

Turn the Water Back On: Once you are confident that the pipes are thawed and there are no leaks, gradually turn the water supply back on. Start with the main shut-off valve and then open the faucets one at a time, starting from the lowest faucet and moving upward.

Call Us Today!

If you discover frozen pipe water damage in your New Baltimore home or commercial business, we can help. Our Mount Clemens and New Baltimore teams are on call and ready to respond to water damage emergencies 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Call us today at 586-598-5050. 

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