How to Fix Frozen Pipes: Thaw Them Safely and Prevent Bursts

Time required: 30-90 mins · Difficulty 2/5

A frozen pipe can split and flood your home once the ice melts. If you see a bulge, crack, or water leaking anywhere along the pipe, shut off the main water valve first and call a licensed plumber. Never use a torch or any open flame to thaw a pipe, and never use electrical devices near standing water.

Est. DIY Parts: $10 - $50 · Pro Service: $100 - $420 · Est. Savings: $90 - $370

* Estimates based on regional/national contractor rate benchmarks. Actual part prices vary by brand and retailer.

Parts & Tools You'll Need

Foam Pipe Insulation Sleeves
Pipe Heat Cable (UL-Listed, Built-In Thermostat)
Hair Dryer
Electric Heating Pad
Flashlight

Step-by-Step Manual

Find the frozen section If a faucet only trickles or gives no water in freezing weather, the pipe feeding it is likely frozen. Check pipes along exterior walls, under sinks on outside walls, and in crawlspaces, basements, attics, and garages. Frost on the pipe often marks the frozen spot. Test your other faucets too — if one pipe froze, others may have as well.
Open the faucet Open the faucet that the frozen pipe feeds. As the ice melts, running water helps thaw the rest of the blockage and gives the water a way out.
Apply gentle heat Warm the frozen section with an electric heating pad wrapped around the pipe, a hair dryer, or towels soaked in hot water. Start at the faucet end and work back toward the frozen area. Keep a hair dryer moving rather than aiming it at one spot.
Keep heating until full pressure returns Keep applying heat until water flows at full pressure. Then turn the faucet off and look and listen along the pipe for drips or hissing that would point to a crack.
Know when to call a plumber If you can't find the frozen spot, it is inside a wall or otherwise out of reach, or you can't get it to thaw, call a licensed plumber.
Prevent the next freeze Insulate exposed pipes with foam sleeves. On very cold nights, let a trickle of cold water drip from faucets served by exposed pipes, and open kitchen and bathroom cabinet doors so warm air reaches the plumbing. Keep the thermostat at the same temperature day and night.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if my pipes are frozen?

The most common sign is a faucet that only trickles or gives no water when the temperature is below freezing. You may also see frost on an exposed pipe. Pipes along exterior walls and in crawlspaces, basements, attics, and garages freeze first.

Will frozen pipes thaw on their own?

They may thaw once temperatures rise, but waiting is risky. A frozen pipe can crack, and you won't know until the ice melts and water starts leaking. Thaw it as soon as you find it, keep the faucet open, and watch for leaks.

What should I never use to thaw a frozen pipe?

The American Red Cross warns against a blowtorch, kerosene or propane heater, charcoal stove, or any other open-flame device. Open flames can start a fire and can damage the pipe. Use an electric heating pad, a hair dryer, or towels soaked in hot water instead, and never use electrical devices around standing water.

What should I do if a frozen pipe bursts?

Shut off the main water valve right away, then call a licensed plumber. If water is near outlets, cords, or appliances, stay out of the area until the power to it is turned off. Take photos of the damage for your insurance claim.

Should I let my faucets drip to keep pipes from freezing?

Yes, during very cold weather. The Red Cross recommends letting cold water drip from faucets served by exposed pipes. Moving water is harder to freeze. Also open sink cabinet doors so warm air can reach the pipes.