How to Thaw Frozen Pipes

Frozen pipes need slow, controlled heat and the water shut off in case the pipe has already split. Never use an open flame.

Common causes

• Uninsulated pipes in exterior walls or the garage
• Sub-zero snap with taps left closed
• Poor air sealing near the pipe run
• Cabinet doors closed off from heat

Step-by-step

1. 01Shut off the main water valve before thawing anything
2. 02Open the affected faucet so melting water can escape
3. 03Warm the pipe with a hair dryer starting nearest the faucet
4. 04Wrap with warm towels if the pipe is behind a wall — never use a torch

When to call Northbridge

• You hear water running but no faucet is open (leak behind wall)
• Pipe is bulging or has a visible split
• Multiple pipes are frozen at once
• Pipe is inside a wall you can't access