Thawing a Frozen Pipe

When the outside temperature drops below freezing water pipes (even those located in homes that are very well insulated) can freeze and break. This is true regardless of whether the pipes are of the metal or plastic variety.

If water has stopped flowing, and a water pipe is suspected to have frozen, don’t panic, but don’t sit back idly either. A frozen water pipe is an inconvenience, but a broken water pipe is a disaster that must be avoided, so it is necessary to take steps to thaw the frozen pipe immediately, either on your own, or with a plumber’s assistance.

Here’s what you should do:

1. To relieve pressure and to determine the extent of the problem, open all faucets. If only one faucet is not working, a vulnerable pipe passing through uninsulated space or in or adjacent to exterior walls leading to such faucet is most likely the problem. If, upon checking, you discover that none of the faucets are working, then the problem’s source is most likely close to the meter.

1. Open the faucet that corresponds with the frozen pipe. This is important because as the frozen water in the pipe starts to melt, water will move freely through the pipe, alleviating pressure and causing more ice to melt.

1. If you are able to locate the frozen area of the pipe and have sufficient access, you should heat the pipe. Upon melting, the pressure in the pipe will force the remaining ice out.The application of heat can be done in the following ways: (i) by wrapping the frozen portion of the pipe in towels soaked in hot water, (ii) by applying heat directly with a hair dryer, heat lamp, or space heater, apply heat from the tap to the area of the pipe that is frozen, or (iii) by wrapping electric heat tape around the pipe. If the frozen water pipe extends into floors or walls, heating the pipe in the section adjacent to where it enters and exits the floor or wall will eventually thaw the enclosed. Note: When using electric heat tape, you must ensure that the tape is certified by a nationally recognized testing agency, and you must use the tape properly, never wrapping a layer of tape over another layer. This could result in overheating and potential fire. In addition, when using a hair dryer, heat lamp or space lamp, always make sure to stand on dry ground to prevent electrocution.

1. If you are unable to locate the exact section of the pipe that is frozen, heat the pipeline from the affected faucet outward until the blockage has thawed.

1. Once water starts flowing through the open faucet, the pipe has thawed. Clear the pipe completely by letting the water run for some time. Then close the faucet and check for leaks.

1. Never attempt to thaw frozen pipes with extreme heat or open flame, including torches, blowpipes or boiling water. Doing so can cause explosion and serious injury. Only a licensed plumber should attempt this.

If, after taking these steps, water continues to trickle out, it is best to call a licensed plumber.

And, remember, if at any time, a pipe appears to have burst, call your plumber immediately.