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Updated
By Nina Kulenkampff
Frozen pipes can be an absolute nightmare. Once the temperature reaches below freezing, water inside your pipes can also freeze, causing the pipes to expand and burst. And it can happen fairly quickly.
According to Weather.com, "Frost becomes more widespread when the temperature falls below 32 degrees Fahrenheit with some freeze possible." However, plumbing pipes are more likely to freeze when temperatures fall to 20 degrees Fahrenheit or below.
In this guide, we'll explain why pipes can freeze in just a few hours and provide tips on how to prepare your plumbing for cold snaps. Let's dive into the unexplored realms of pipe protection.
According to many plumbing professionals, it typically takes 6 to 8 hours for pipes to freeze if they are left unprotected in an unheated area. That's why it's extremely important to take steps to protect your water pipes from the cold weather this winter.
Here are a few factors (apart from temperature) that impact how long it takes for pipes to freeze.
Don't wait for signs that your pipes are freezing. Be proactive and prevent frozen pipes from the get-go. Let's cover some easy ways to prevent pipes from freezing and bursting.
Identify which pipes are exposed or situated in unheated areas (think crawl spaces, garages, and attics) and consider insulating them with products such as "pipe sleeves" or "heat tape/cables."
Note: Be sure to insulate both the hot and cold water pipes, as hot water pipes are likely to freeze, too.
Turn off the water supply to outdoor hose bibs, and cover the bibs with insulation. As for your pool, water sprinkler supply, and garden hoses, make sure those are drained empty and stored securely until the warmer seasons arrive.
Keep your home adequately heated, even when you're away. The suggestion is to maintain an indoor temperature of at least 55 degrees Fahrenheit to prevent interior pipes from freezing.
Read more on how to prevent pipes from freezing.
You'll need a heat source to unfreeze and thaw your frozen pipes. Items such as an electric heating pad, hair dryer, towels soaked in hot water, a portable space heater, or thermostatically controlled heat tape will work.
Warning: Do NOT use anything that produces an open flame as a heat source to thaw out your pipes.
Once you have your heat source, you need to do the following:
Here’s a more detailed yet easy-to-follow instructions on how to unfreeze and thaw out frozen pipes.
Whether you're winterizing your home or actively trying to thaw frozen pipes, getting help from someone skilled and experienced is always a good idea. Download the Thumbtack app to see pros near you. Start requesting free estimates from top-rated plumbers in your area today.
Pipes burst when they freeze because the water inside is expanding. It changes from a liquid to a solid state. Upon freezing, the volume of the ice in the pipes increases by 9%, leading to a pressure buildup that ultimately causes the pipes to burst.
Here are some examples of water lines or pipes at risk of freezing due to poor insulation or exposure to cold weather:
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