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how do i unfreeze my water pipes

If your water pipes are frozen, the key is to thaw them slowly and safely to avoid bursts or leaks.

Quick safety checks

  • Turn off the main water supply at the shutoff valve (usually near the water meter or where the line enters the house).
  • Open the affected faucet(s) so pressure can release as the ice melts; leave both hot and cold handles open if possible.
  • Do not use open flames, blowtorches, or propane heaters; these can crack pipes or start a fire.

How to unfreeze exposed pipes

If you can see the frozen section (under a sink, in a basement, or along an outside wall):

  1. Start near the faucet and work toward the coldest spot; this lets melted ice and steam escape instead of building pressure.
  1. Apply gentle, steady heat using one or more of these methods:
    • Hair dryer on low/medium, moving it slowly along the pipe.
 * Electric heating pad or thermostatically controlled heat tape wrapped around the pipe.

 * Towels soaked in hot water wrapped around the pipe and replaced as they cool.
  1. Keep the faucet open until water flows normally, then leave it trickling for a few minutes to clear any remaining ice.

If the pipe is hidden in a wall or floor

  • Raise the room temperature above about 55°F (13°C), open cabinet doors, and keep interior doors open so warm air circulates.
  • Use a space heater or heat lamp aimed at the wall area where you suspect the pipe runs, keeping it several feet away and away from anything flammable.
  • If you can’t locate the blockage or the pipe doesn’t thaw within a reasonable time, call a licensed plumber to avoid burst‑pipe damage.

What to do if you suspect a burst pipe

  • If you see water spraying, pooling, or damp walls , shut off the main water immediately and call a plumber or emergency service.
  • Turn off electricity near standing water to reduce shock risk, and start mopping or using towels to limit damage while you wait.

Preventing pipes from freezing again

  • Keep indoor temps above 55°F (13°C) even when you’re away.
  • Insulate pipes in unheated areas (attics, garages, crawl spaces) and seal drafts near plumbing.
  • On very cold nights, let a thin stream of water run from a faucet fed by vulnerable lines; moving water is less likely to freeze.

If you tell me whether the frozen pipe is inside (under sink, in wall) or outside, I can walk you through a more tailored, step‑by‑step plan.