What to do if your pipes freeze

1/3/2018 (Permalink)

Never use an open flame to de-thaw frozen pipes. Here a great picture of ice within the plumbing lines.

With this recent extended cold spell throughout northeastern Pa., frozen pipes are not an uncommon problem.  Plumbers are extremely busy helping homeowners deal with this issue. There is a right and wrong way to resolve this problem.

Let's begin by mentioning what not to do. NEVER USE A OPEN FLAME! While this may be tempting, its a fire hazard and SERVPRO of Hazleton/Dallas/Harveys Lake has responded to 2 home fires  in western Luzerne County these past two weeks because of this. No blow torches or open flame heaters period. A fire is not better than a flood!

So what are the acceptable methods for de-thawing frozen pipes. Most experts will recommend using either a blow dryer or heating tape. Both these methods will gradually de-thaw the ice within the lines and allow the water to flow. Ideally you want this process to occur slowly.

An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure, but if this should occur be smart and be safe.