First Aid for Pipe Leaks

• As long as the leak isn't a geyser, temporary patches can be made until the pipe can be replaced. Shut the valve supplying water flow to the pipe to take pressure off the line. If the problem is in a section of pipe in the wall, ceiling or floor, there is not much more that can be done at this point except calling a plumber.
  
  If the leak is visible, try different patching methods. For pinhole leaks, wrap the pipe with several layers of plastic electrical tape. Wrap it six inches on either side of the hole. For leaks at connections, use epoxy putty that is spread with a putty knife.
  
  A metal clamp for pipes can be used for minor leaks. It has a rubber inner lining insert, and the clamp can be tightened with a screwdriver. An auto hose clamp and a piece of rubber create an emergency leak stopper until the pipe can be better repaired or replaced.
  
  

Thawing Frozen Pipes

• Pipes that freeze during the winter can burst. Before attempting to thaw visible pipes, open the faucet of the frozen pipes so that steam created by the thawing process can escape.
  
  One thawing method is to wrap the pipe with layers of cloth, tying the cloth to the pipe and pouring hot water on it. Another is to use a heat lamp on exposed and concealed pipes. Protect other areas around the pipe from becoming scorched. On exposed pipes only, use a propane torch. Be careful to not have the flame touch flammable materials. Work the torch from the faucet toward the frozen area. Another method is to wrap electric heat tape around the pipe and plug it into an outlet. A thermostat controls the heat.
  
  

Opening Clogged Drains

• Hair, bits of soap and other debris often clog drains in sinks, toilets and tubs.
  
  Some sink drains can be lifted and cleaned. Others will require the use of a plunger. If a sink has an overflow outlet, plug it with a cloth before using the plunger to avoid debris from shooting through the outlet. An auger or snake can be threaded down the drain to open a clogged area further down in the pipe. Sometimes the trap will have to be removed to tackle the problem from another angle.
  
  Similar steps work for toilets and tubs. Sometimes, though, the problem needs to be tackled from the main drain in the house. Every house has access, through a trap or clean-out opening, to the main waste pipe. An auger or snake will be needed to remove a clog between the house and the municipal pipe or the septic tank outside.