If your water pipes freeze, the goal is to stop damage, restore flow safely, and prevent a burst. Here’s a clear, step‑by‑step guide you can follow.

Quick Scoop

  • Don’t panic. Frozen pipes are common in cold snaps and often fixable without a plumber if you act early.
  • Never use open flames or blowtorches to thaw pipes—this can crack or ignite them.
  • If you see leaks or a burst , shut off the main water immediately and call a plumber.

Step 1: Confirm the pipe is frozen

Signs a pipe is frozen (not just low pressure):

  • No water or only a trickle from one or more taps, especially in the same area (kitchen, bathroom, basement).
  • Frost or condensation on exposed pipes, or a bulge in the pipe.

If all taps are dead, check with neighbors or your building’s main shutoff; it may be a broader supply issue.

Step 2: Shut off the water and heat

  1. Turn off the main water supply at the stopcock (usually under the kitchen sink, in a basement, or near the water meter).
  1. Turn off the boiler or water heater if the frozen pipe feeds it, to avoid overheating or pressure buildup.

This reduces the chance of a burst when the ice starts to thaw.

Step 3: Relieve pressure on the pipe

  • Open the faucet closest to the frozen section so water can flow once the ice melts.
  • If you can’t find the exact spot, open all taps briefly , then close them again once you’ve started thawing.

This helps prevent pressure spikes that can crack the pipe.

Step 4: Thaw the pipe safely

Use gentle, indirect heat , never direct flame.

Common safe methods:

  • Hair dryer or heat gun held a few inches from the pipe, moving along its length.
  • Hot water bottles or towels soaked in hot (not boiling) water wrapped around the pipe.
  • Space heater or fan heater aimed at the area (keep it a safe distance from flammable materials).

Work from the faucet end toward the colder section so melted water can escape and not get trapped.

Step 5: Check for leaks or bursts

Once water starts flowing:

  • Look closely at the pipe for cracks, splits, or drips.
  • If you see any leak , keep the main water off and call a plumber immediately.

Even a small leak can turn into major water damage once the pipe fully thaws.

Step 6: Restore water and test

  • Slowly turn the main water back on and let the affected faucet run for a minute to clear air.
  • Check other taps and appliances (dishwasher, washing machine, toilet fill) to make sure everything works normally.

If flow is still weak or uneven, there may be another frozen section or a partial blockage; repeat the thawing steps or call a pro.

What not to do

  • ❌ No blowtorches, propane torches, or open flames near pipes.
  • ❌ Don’t hammer or chip ice off the pipe; this can rupture it.
  • ❌ Don’t ignore it overnight if you’re unsure; a burst can flood a room while you sleep.

Prevention tips (so it doesn’t happen again)

Action| Why it helps
---|---
Insulate exposed pipes in attics, basements, and garages. 510| Slows heat loss and delays freezing.
Keep cabinet doors open under sinks so warm room air reaches pipes. 710| Reduces cold spots near faucets.
Let a faucet drip slightly during extreme cold. 910| Moving water is harder to freeze.
Disconnect and drain outdoor hoses; cover outdoor faucets. 810| Stops water from freezing in hose bibs.
Keep your home at least 55°F (13°C) when away in winter. 59| Prevents interior pipes from freezing.

When to call a plumber

Call a licensed plumber if:

  • You can’t find or safely reach the frozen section.
  • The pipe is behind walls, under floors, or in a hard‑to‑access area.
  • You see any sign of a burst or leak , or water damage (wet walls, ceilings, floors).

Many plumbers now use pipe‑thaw machines that can clear frozen lines quickly without cutting into walls.

If you tell me where you are (country/house type: apartment vs detached) and whether you’ve seen any leaks, I can give you a more tailored “what to do right now” checklist.