If your attempts to fix the problem are unsuccessful, call a plumber to the rescue right away. This method is not advisable, as the risks of weakening a pipe weld or causing fire are too great. Some people suggest thawing out pipes using a propane torch in combination with a heat-resistant barrier placed between the pipe and the wall. If the frozen pipe is located behind a wall, the gradual heating method will still work, but it will take longer because the heat transfer will be less direct. Be careful not to put the heat source in direct contact with the pipe, or with any potentially flammable surrounding material, for that matter. You sometimes need to be patient: it might take more than a few seconds for it to work. Place the heat source near the pipe for a few minutes, then gradually move it closer. You also have other options besides a hair dryer: a small radiator (mechanical ventilation or radiant-heat type), heat lamp or high-wattage light bulb. Turn on the faucet and slowly move the dryer closer to the frozen area, making sure to distribute the heat evenly. The ideal tool for thawing pipes safely is a hair dryer. If you’re not sure, you can pinpoint the area to be warmed by running a damp cloth along the pipe: it will “catch” slightly as you go over the frozen part. You can locate the frozen part of the pipe by looking for frost formed on its surface. Your search will be easier if you’re familiar with your home’s structure, including its less-insulated areas for example, pipes near exterior walls are more likely to freeze, especially those in north-facing walls.įocus on areas that tend to be colder, such as closets, kitchen cabinets (if the problem is with the water inlet) or bathroom cabinets (if there’s no water coming out of the sink or shower faucet). Want to know if water damage is covered or not? See our tips.īefore you can act, you have to locate the problem. Check your coverage with your insurer, especially if you own a seasonal or mobile home. You should know that many home insurance policies cover you against breakage caused by freezing however, some only cover specific risks, such as fire and theft, but not freezing. And a broken pipe can lead to significant water damage! Once you suspect that a pipe is frozen, you have to act quickly because it could burst. What should you do when the pipes freeze? When the temperature drops and a cold snap settles in, it’s never long before pipes in poorly insulated houses are affected.