fun88
Jan 28, 2010, 02:15 PM
The pipes in my unoccupied mobile home have froze and I am positive that the water in the hot water heater is frozen as well. Any solutions as to what to do?
massplumber2008
Jan 28, 2010, 02:47 PM
Hi 88...
I'm thinking the best thing here will be to go rent or purchase a SALAMANDER type of kerosene or propane heater and use that to thaw out the pipes from underneath the trailer apron. You want to turn the heat on inside as well... obviously! You can also rent or purchase a paint stripper heat gun to speed the thawing process inside the building... if necessary
Be sure to keep your eyes on the job at all times as a few trailers have burned down using these tools!
After the pipes are thawed you will be able to turn on the water supply and cut out any of the broken pipes and begin to make repairs to the plumbing.
The drain pipes may also be frozen/broken at the Ptraps.
In terms of the water heater, you will just have to wait until you can get water flowing to determine the extent of damage. Sounds to me like you should plan on replacing the unit, but you never know... huh?
Anyway, rent the salamander, heat the space under and above and see how you make out.
Pop back if you have questions...
MARK