What should I do if my pipes freeze?
The Red Cross website suggests, if you turn on a faucet and only a trickle comes out, suspect a frozen pipe. Locate the suspected frozen area of the water pipe. Likely places include pipes running against exterior walls or where your water service enters your home through the foundation.

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 more 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 wrapping pipes with towels soaked in hot water. Do not use a blowtorch, kerosene or propane heater, charcoal stove, or other open flame device. A blowtorch can make water in a frozen pipe boil and cause the pipe to explode. All open flames in homes present a serious fire danger, as well as a severe risk of exposure to lethal carbon monoxide. 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.

Show All Answers

1. What if my main shut-off valve does not work in an emergency?
2. What is a water service?
3. Where are my shutoff valves?
4. What part of my service are my property and my responsibility?
5. What should I do if my pipes freeze?
6. Should I maintain my main shutoff valve?
7. Why do I have those utility flags in my parkway?
8. Why is my water bill high?
9. Who should I contact for water billing questions?
10. Who should I contact about my water quality?