How to Thaw a Frozen Pipe

If you have a frozen water pipe, it’s important not to thaw it too quickly. Here are some tips on how to thaw a frozen pipe safely. If you are unsure about how to safely thaw a pipe, it is best to contact a professional plumber for assistance.

What to do if you have a frozen pipe:

• Find the area – Often this occurs when pipes are on the exterior of the property. Or in colder areas like basements or lofts.

• Shut off your water – It’s best to shut off your water in case the pipe bursts, or other leaks form due to pressure on the system.

• Gently heat – Use a hair dryer, heat lamp or the gentle heat of a column radiator near the pipe to slowly thaw your frozen pipe. You don’t want to heat the area too quickly, as this will put pressure on the pipework. And never, ever use an open flame to heat the area!

• Turn on the taps – You want to release the pressure on the pipes by turning on the taps closest to your frozen pipe. Keep the taps on until the thaw is complete and water is running properly. It’s a good idea to check for leaks if you’ve experience a freeze, as pipes can often burst or split as a result.

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