Plumbing Basics

Pipe Freezing

Pipe freezing is a method for stopping the flow of water in order to repair pipes and valves. 

Especially with large systems, turning off the water may not be the best option. 

A pipe, however, cannot be cut or repaired while water is running through it.  Pipe freezing kits solve this problem by creating ice seals wherever they are needed, holding back the flow of water.

• The ice seals can hold back a large amount of pressure since ice adheres to steel.  Friction and irregular pipe shape also contibute to holding the seal in place, even when the pressure is very great. 

• Furthermore, while accidental ice formation can damage a pipe, controlled pipe freezing doesn't pose such a risk.  The uneven formation of the ice during accidental freezing can cause pressure differentials in the unfrozen water that can cause breaks in pipe.

Of course, pipe freezing is an advanced plumbing technique and should be performed by a trained professional plumber or pipe freezing technician.  Not only are there are safety protocols to observe, but there are also specific procedures to follow in order to get the best results.

You should first contact a plumber to get expert advice and to find out if pipe freezing is the best solution for your pipe repair needs.