Preventing and thawing frozen pipes
In hard frosts, the water pipe of a detached house, cottage or unheated space can freeze and, at worst, burst. Prevention is easier than thawing, and if a pipe does freeze, the right steps prevent water damage.
You will need
- Pipe insulation or a heating cable
- A hairdryer or fan heater
- A torch
- Knowing where the main shut-off valve is
- A thermometer for cold spaces
Steps
Identify the risk points
The risk of freezing is greatest in cold spaces such as crawl spaces, garages, along outer walls and in the pipe coming into the house from the well. Map these points before winter.
Insulate the pipes
Keep spaces warm
Deal with outdoor taps
Let water trickle in hard frosts
Locate the frozen section
Thaw it carefully
Get help when needed
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