Washing machines are a fundamental appliance in any household. They are used to wash clothes, sheets, and other textiles. However, during the winter season, the pipes of the washing machine may freeze, causing the machine to malfunction. If you are facing this problem, do not worry because in this article, we will show you how to unfreeze washing machine pipes.
What causes washing machine pipes to freeze?
Before we dive into the solutions, let us first understand what causes washing machine pipes to freeze. During the winter season, the temperature outside drops, causing the water in the pipes to freeze. When water freezes, it expands and can cause the pipes to burst. This is why it is essential to take care of your washing machine pipes during the winter season.
How to prevent washing machine pipes from freezing?
The best way to prevent washing machine pipes from freezing is to keep your home warm. You can achieve this by insulating your pipes and sealing any leaks in your home. You can also keep your home warm by using a space heater, especially in rooms where the washing machine is located. Additionally, you can keep the washing machine door open when it is not in use to allow heat to circulate around the pipes.
How to unfreeze washing machine pipes?
Now that we have discussed how to prevent washing machine pipes from freezing let us discuss how to unfreeze them. The following are some of the ways to unfreeze washing machine pipes:
1. Use a hairdryer
You can use a hairdryer to unfreeze the pipes. Turn on the hairdryer and point it towards the pipes. Move the hairdryer around the pipes to ensure that all parts of the pipe are heated. Be careful not to overheat the pipes as this can cause them to burst.
2. Use a space heater
You can also use a space heater to unfreeze the pipes. Place the space heater near the pipes and turn it on. Leave the heater on for a few hours until the pipes have thawed. Again, be careful not to overheat the pipes.
3. Use hot water
You can also use hot water to unfreeze the pipes. Fill a container with hot water and pour it over the pipes. Repeat this process until the pipes have thawed. Be careful not to pour boiling water over the pipes as this can cause them to burst.
4. Call a professional plumber
If you are not comfortable with any of the methods mentioned above, you can call a professional plumber. A plumber will have the necessary tools and expertise to unfreeze the pipes safely.
Conclusion
Winter can be a challenging season for washing machines, especially when the pipes freeze. However, by following the methods mentioned above, you can unfreeze the pipes and get your washing machine working again. Remember, prevention is better than cure, so take the necessary steps to prevent your washing machine pipes from freezing in the first place.