Short answer: Open the faucet, then warm the frozen section slowly with a hair dryer, a heating pad or warm towels, starting near the faucet. Never use an open flame. If the pipe has split, shut off the main water valve first.
When a faucet gives only a trickle or nothing on a freezing morning, a pipe has probably frozen. Thawing it slowly and safely keeps a frozen pipe from turning into a burst pipe.
Find the frozen section
- Check pipes on outside walls, in crawl spaces, attics, garages and under sinks
- Look for frost on the pipe or a bulge
- If only one faucet is dry, the frozen spot is between it and the nearest working faucet
Thaw it safely
- Open the faucet so melting water can flow out
- Start warming nearest the faucet and work back toward the frozen area
- Use a hair dryer, an electric heating pad, or towels soaked in hot water
- Open cabinet doors so warm room air reaches the pipes
- Keep warming until full water pressure returns
Never do this
- Never use a torch, a lighter or any open flame
- Never use a kerosene or propane heater in a closed space
- Never use electrical devices while standing in water
- Never pour boiling water on plastic pipes
If the pipe burst
- Shut off the main water valve right away
- Turn off the water heater
- Move belongings and start removing water
- Call a plumber and take photos for insurance
When to call a professional
Call a plumber if you cannot find or reach the frozen section, if the pipe is cracked or bulging, or if several pipes are frozen. A plumber can thaw pipes safely and check for hidden splits.
Frequently asked questions
How long does a frozen pipe take to thaw?
Usually 30 minutes to a few hours with gentle heat, depending on how cold it is and where the pipe is.
Will a frozen pipe always burst?
No, but the pressure that builds up while it is frozen often causes a split, which leaks once it thaws.
How do I stop pipes freezing again?
Keep the heat on, open cabinet doors on very cold nights, let faucets drip, and insulate exposed pipes.
Related
Read our frozen pipes guide and our burst pipe water damage page.
For more background, see Ready.gov winter weather advice, and if you need help, Sifixit can connect you with a local provider.
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