How To Unfreeze Manufactured Home Pipes In Winter

Winter brings the risk of freezing pipes, a concern for many manufactured homeowners. The question often arises: will mobile home pipes freeze? The answer is yes, they can, especially if precautions aren't taken. Frozen pipes can lead to significant problems, including the risk of bursting, which can cause extensive water damage. Here’s how you can effectively address and prevent frozen pipes in your manufactured home.

Identify the Problem Areas

First, it’s important to know where freezing is most likely to occur. Pipes running along exterior walls, under the home, and in unheated crawlspaces are most at risk. In manufactured homes, these areas are often less insulated, which makes the pipes more susceptible to freezing temperatures.

Keep the Heat On

One of the simplest preventive measures is to keep your home heated to at least 55 degrees Fahrenheit, even if you are not home. Consistent indoor heating can help prevent the air around the pipes from dropping to freezing levels.

Insulate Your Pipes

Adding insulation to your pipes is an effective way to prevent them from freezing. Use foam pipe insulation sleeves available at most hardware stores. For extra protection, especially in very cold areas, consider wrapping them with electrical heat tape before insulating.

Seal Off Drafts

Check your manufactured home for any gaps or openings where cold air might enter, particularly near pipes. Use caulking or spray foam to seal off these spaces around pipes that run through walls or floors. Ensuring these areas are well-sealed will not only help prevent pipes from freezing but also increase your home’s overall energy efficiency.

Let Faucets Drip

Allowing a faucet to drip slightly during extreme cold can prevent pressure from building up within the pipes. It’s the pressure from ice blockages that can cause pipes to burst. By letting the faucet drip, you alleviate this pressure build-up, reducing the risk of a burst pipe.

Open Cabinet Doors

In kitchens and bathrooms, open the cabinet doors under the sinks to allow warmer room air to circulate the pipes. This is particularly effective if your sinks are on an exterior wall.

Apply Heat to Frozen Pipes

If you discover a frozen pipe, you can apply heat to help thaw it. Use an electric heating pad, a hair dryer, or a portable space heater—never use an open flame as it presents a fire hazard. Apply the heat slowly and start from the nearest faucet to the frozen area to allow melting ice to drip out.

Install Heat Tape

For a long-term solution, consider installing heat tape or a heat cable along vulnerable pipes. These products are designed to be wrapped around pipes and plugged into an outlet to provide consistent warmth. Be sure to follow the manufacturer's installation and safety instructions carefully.

Monitor Weather Forecasts

Stay aware of upcoming cold snaps and prepare by taking preventive actions ahead of time. This can include ensuring that your heating system is working correctly and that areas around your home are properly insulated against the cold.

What To Do If Pipes Burst

If a pipe bursts, immediately shut off the main water supply to prevent further damage. Then, call a professional plumber. It’s helpful to know the location of your main water shut-off valve before an emergency occurs.

Stay Warm with Winter-ready Manufactured Homes at Cambio Communities

Preventing and addressing frozen pipes in a manufactured home involves a combination of preparation, maintenance, and quick action in case of freezing.

At Cambio Communities, we understand the challenges of maintaining a home during the winter months. That's why our manufactured home communities are designed with your comfort and needs in mind. Our homes are built to high standards to ensure they remain warm and safe, even in the coldest weather.

Whether you're looking to rent or buy, Cambio provides affordable, high-quality homes that meet the unique needs of each resident. With our commitment to excellent service and resident satisfaction, you can rest assured that choosing Cambio Communities means choosing a warm home for the winter.