Frozen Pipe Emergency

Frozen Pipes Emergency

Frozen pipes can burst and cause severe water damage. Learn how to safely thaw pipes and when to call a professional before it's too late.

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What To Do Right Now

Open Faucets

Turn on both hot and cold water faucets. This relieves pressure and allows water to flow as the ice melts, preventing pipe bursts.

Locate Frozen Section

Check exposed pipes in unheated areas: crawl spaces, attics, garages, exterior walls. Look for frost, bulging, or feel for extremely cold sections.

Apply Gentle Heat

Use a hair dryer, heating pad, or towels soaked in hot water. Start from the faucet end and work toward the frozen section. Never use open flames.

Keep Cabinet Doors Open

Open kitchen and bathroom cabinet doors to let warm air reach pipes near exterior walls. This helps thaw and prevents further freezing.

Monitor for Leaks

As pipes thaw, watch for leaks or cracks. Small cracks can spray water forcefully. Know your shutoff valve location in case you need it.

Call Professional If Needed

If you can't locate the frozen section, the pipe is inside a wall, or you notice cracks, call a 24/7 emergency plumber immediately.

Signs You Have a Frozen Pipe Emergency

No water coming from faucets despite main supply being on

Only a trickle of water from taps

Frost visible on exposed pipes

Strange odors from drains (gases can't escape)

Unusual sounds when turning on water

Bulging or deformed pipe sections

Water meter running but no water in house

Toilet tank not refilling after flush

Frozen Pipe Emergency Repair Costs

Typical repair range

$100 - $500

Factors affecting cost:

Whether pipes actually burst (significantly higher cost)
Location of frozen pipes (accessible vs in-wall)
Number of pipes affected
Need for pipe insulation installation
Water damage restoration if burst occurred

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Frequently Asked Questions

At what temperature do pipes freeze?

Pipes can start to freeze when temperatures drop below 20°F (-6°C), but the risk increases significantly at 0°F or below. Pipes in uninsulated areas or exterior walls are most vulnerable. Wind chill can accelerate freezing in exposed areas.

Can I use a space heater to thaw frozen pipes?

Yes, but use extreme caution. Keep the space heater at least 3 feet from any flammable materials and never leave it unattended. A hair dryer is safer for direct application. Never use blowtorches, propane heaters, or other open flame devices.

How long does it take pipes to freeze?

Pipes can freeze in as little as 6-8 hours at temperatures below 20°F. However, well-insulated pipes in heated areas may never freeze. The most vulnerable are exterior walls, unheated basements, crawl spaces, and attics.

Will frozen pipes always burst?

Not always, but the risk is high. Water expands about 9% when frozen, creating tremendous pressure. Pipes are more likely to burst in a section between the ice blockage and a closed faucet where pressure builds up.

How can I prevent pipes from freezing?

Insulate exposed pipes with foam sleeves, keep your thermostat at 55°F or higher even when away, let faucets drip during extreme cold, open cabinet doors under sinks, disconnect garden hoses, and seal air leaks near pipes.

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Related Plumbing Emergencies

Burst Pipe Emergency

Pipe already burst? Get immediate help to minimize water damage.

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Water heater affected by the cold? Find out why and get help.

Water Heater Emergency

Frozen conditions can damage water heaters. Know the warning signs.

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