Leaks are never fun, and frozen pipes can fray anyone’s nerves. These tips should help:
Use plumber’s epoxy for a quick fix on a small pipe leak. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for application to seal the leak — until you can make a permanent repair!
Use a piece of 1⁄16-inch neoprene rubber and two metal hose clamps to cover the split or leaking area. Wrap the rubber over the leak, and seal both ends to the pipe with the clamps.
Use a sleeve clamp to seal a leaking pipe. This clamp is hinged and fits over the pipe sort of like a clamshell. It comes with a short length of rubber, which you place over the leak before you put the sleeve in place. Then you secure the clamp over the pipe with the supplied bolts and nuts.
Thaw a frozen pipe using a hair dryer or heat lamp. First, be sure to turn off the water and drain any water that’s downstream from the frozen blockage.
Wrap an old towel or rag over a frozen pipe at the blockage, and pour hot water over the towel. Leave the towel in place until the blockage thaws. Repeat as needed by applying more hot water.
Protect pipes that regularly freeze by wrapping electric heat tape around the pipe. Use only UL-approved heat tape, and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for installation and operation.
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