Most American houses have faucets on external walls too, especially on the front and back of the house.
Pipes in or near uninsulated crawlspaces, attics, or basements. Pipes near cold air vents or cold concrete. Outdoor valves and spigots. Outdoor pipes can freeze, but check these last, as most systems are designed to keep standing water out of these pipes.
To look at the backs of pipes near walls, and in other difficult to reach areas, use a flashlight and a large dental mirror from a hardware store. If you find a leak, close the main shut-off valve immediately. Call a plumber to replace the pipe, or fix it yourself if you are up to the task. [4] X Expert Source David BalkanProfessional Plumber & CEO of Balkan Sewer & Water Main Expert Interview. 29 April 2021.
Feel the temperature of the pipe with your hand or use an infrared thermometer to locate areas significantly colder than other pipes. Tap the pipe with a screwdriver handle or other object, listening for a more solid, less “hollow” sound. If you rule out all exposed pipes in the affected area, skip to the section on unfreezing pipes inside walls.
If you see any cracks in any pipe, turn off the main water supply to your house immediately and close all faucets.
PVC pipes can be damaged at temperatures as low as 140ºF (60ºC). Never use a heat gun or other direct heat stronger than a hair dryer. Outdoor valves often have fiber washers or other non-heat-safe materials inside them. Heat them slowly and cautiously.
Do not overlap electrical heat tape. Wrap it around the pipe only once or in a spiral pattern.
You can try dissolving the salt in 1/2 cup (120 mL) of boiling water first, but this risks bursting the pipe with a sudden temperature change.
Do not leave cold wet towels around the pipes.
Open closet and cabinet doors so the warm air circulates as close to the walls as possible.
If this is a recurring problem, consider installing a cabinet door over the hole instead of fully repairing the wall, for ease of access next time this occurs.
Don’t let your house temperature drop below 55 °F (13 °C) if you’re traveling or on vacation. [17] X Trustworthy Source State of Indiana Official site for state-approved sources related to life in Indiana, including laws, services, and culture Go to source
You can adjust the ballast in your toilet tank to keep it running even when the tank is full.
