Well before the frigid weather hits, you should have a winter emergency plan in place in case of a prolonged power outage. Even the best plans have flaws and your home pipes freezing may be one of them. If you ever find yourself in this situation here are some tips and tricks to help you weather the frozen storm, without causing the inside of your home to become a frozen ice rink!
What should you do if a water pipe freezes?
You should make sure it never happens again! When the water freezes, it tries to expand inside the pipe. It pushes against the sides of the pipe, as well as any nearby valves, seams and faucets. The freezing action of the water is more than capable of rupturing any pipe.
Unfortunately, a water pipe may freeze even if you have taken precautions. Whatever the cause, it’s important that you thaw out your pipe for two reasons:
- You almost certainly need the water.
- You should be at home when the pipe thaws, just in case the pipe and/or joint is ruptured.
Bear in mind that a frozen pipe doesn’t leak—the water is ice. You’ll discover you have a leak only after the ice melts. If you’re not home, a ruptured pipe can cause a great deal of damage.