How to Thaw Frozen Pipes

1/17/2018 (Permalink)

If you turn on a faucet and only a trickle comes out, suspect a frozen pipe. Likely places for frozen pipes are against exterior walls or where your water service enters your home through the foundation. If your pipes freeze, then try to thaw them following the tips below and call a professional plumber when necessary. If your pipes break, then immediately turn off the main water supply to your home or business to prevent further damages.

• Keep the faucet open. As you treat the frozen pipe and the frozen area begins to melt, water will begin to flow through the frozen area. Running water through the pipe will help melt ice in the pipe.
• Apply heat to the section of pipe using an electric heating pad wrapped around the pipe, an electric hair dryer, a portable space heater (kept away from flammable materials), or by wrapping pipes with towels soaked in hot water. Do not use a blowtorch, kerosene or propane heater, charcoal stove, or other open flame device.
• Apply heat until full water pressure is restored. If you are unable to locate the frozen area, if the frozen area is not accessible, or if you can not thaw the pipe, call a licensed plumber.

Remember to check all other faucets in your home to find out if you have additional frozen pipes. If one pipe freezes, others may freeze, too.

SERVPRO of Greater Covington and Mandeville is available 24/7 for emergency water damage restoration. 

985-871-5375