Effective Ways to Drain Water from Pipes

When it comes to plumbing, one of the most common headaches is dealing with water trapped inside pipes. Whether you’re prepping for soldering, fixing a leak, or winter-proofing your system, getting rid of that water quickly and cleanly is key. No one wants to waste time or end up with a soggy mess. Luckily, there are straightforward, practical ways to drain water from pipes that save you hassle and get the job done right.

Why You Need to Drain Pipes Properly

Draining pipes isn’t just about avoiding water spills. It’s about making sure your work holds up and lasts. Water left in copper pipes before soldering can cause poor joints, leaks, and wasted materials. Plus, if you’re dealing with heating systems or outdoor plumbing, trapped water can freeze and cause pipes to burst.

Here’s why proper draining matters:

• Prevents failed joints: Water in pipes cools solder too fast, leading to weak connections.

• Avoids corrosion and damage: Standing water can cause rust or degrade pipe materials.

• Protects against freezing: Draining pipes before winter stops costly bursts.

• Saves time and effort: Quick draining means less cleanup and faster repairs.

  
  

No hacks or gimmicks here - just solid plumbing sense. Using the right tools and techniques makes all the difference.

Copper pipe with trapped water before draining

Simple Steps to Drain Pipes Efficiently

Draining pipes doesn’t have to be a faff. With a bit of know-how and the right gear, you can clear water in seconds. Here’s a no-nonsense approach:

1. Turn off the water supply

   Shut off the main valve or the section you’re working on. This stops more water from coming in.

   
   

2. Open taps and valves

   Open all taps connected to the pipe you want to drain. This lets air in and water out.

   
   

3. Use gravity to your advantage

   If possible, position the pipe so water can flow downwards and out naturally.

   
   

4. Blow out remaining water

   This is where a tool like the Plumbers Snake comes in handy. It clips onto your blowtorch and pushes trapped water out fast. No mess, no nonsense.

   
   

5. Check for leftover water

   Give the pipe a shake or tap to dislodge any stubborn drops.

   
   

6. Dry the pipe before soldering

   Use a clean cloth or heat to ensure the pipe is bone dry before you start.

   
   

This method is built by tradesmen, for tradesmen. It’s simple, fast, and reliable.

Plumber using blowtorch with Plumbers Snake to clear water

How to Empty Pipes for Winter?

Winter is the time when pipes get tested the most. Freezing water expands and can crack your copper pipes, leading to expensive repairs. Draining your pipes before the cold hits is a must-do.

Here’s how to empty pipes for winter:

• Turn off the water supply at the mains.

• Drain all taps and valves inside and outside the property.

• Use drain valves or plugs at low points in the system to let water escape.

• Blow out remaining water with compressed air or a tool like the Plumbers Snake.

• Insulate exposed pipes to protect any sections that can’t be drained.

• Check your heating system and drain radiators if needed.

  
  

Taking these steps means you won’t wake up to a flooded kitchen or a burst pipe in January. It just makes sense to prepare now rather than fix later.

Outdoor plumbing drain valve open for winter

Tools That Make Draining Pipes Easier

You don’t need a toolbox full of gadgets to drain pipes properly. The right tool can save you time and frustration. The Plumbers Snake is a prime example - designed specifically to clear water from copper pipes before soldering.

Why it works:

• Attaches to your blowtorch so it’s always within reach.

• Clears water in seconds without guesswork.

• No mess, no nonsense - just a clean, dry pipe ready for work.

• Built tough for tradespeople who need reliability on the job.

  
  

Using a purpose-built tool beats trying to blow water out with your mouth or makeshift devices. It’s straightforward and gets the job done right the first time.

Tips for Draining Pipes Like a Pro

Here are some quick tips to keep in mind when draining pipes:

• Always work from the highest point to the lowest to let gravity help.

• Use open taps as vents to speed up draining.

• Don’t rush soldering until you’re sure the pipe is dry.

• If you’re stuck, check out how to remove water from pipes for expert advice.

• Keep your tools clean and ready - a quick job is a good job.

  
  

Draining pipes properly isn’t rocket science. It’s about working smart, not hard.

Draining water from pipes is one of those jobs that’s easy to overlook but crucial to get right. Whether you’re a pro on the tools or a confident DIYer, having a reliable method and the right gear makes all the difference. No more failed joints, no more mess, just clean, dry pipes ready for whatever comes next. Why hasn’t this existed before? Because now it does - and it just makes sense.