How to Thaw Frozen Pipes

Frozen pipes need to be thawed slowly from the faucet end toward the frozen section — never from the middle. Here's the safest method and how to tell if a pipe has already burst.

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HOW TO THAW SAFELY:
1. Open the faucet connected to the frozen pipe (both hot and cold handles)
2. Apply heat starting from the faucet end — use a heat gun, hair dryer, or heat tape
3. Never use an open flame — propane torch near a frozen pipe is a fire and explosion risk
4. Work toward the frozen section — water will flow as it thaws and the open faucet prevents pressure buildup
5. Check exposed pipes for cracks while thawing — if you see splits, shut off the main and call a plumber
PREVENTION: Heat cable (heat tape) wraps around vulnerable pipes and thermostatically prevents freezing. Install before the pipes freeze, not after.
PRO TIP: If you can't find the frozen section, the most common locations are pipes along exterior walls, in crawlspaces, and where pipes pass through uninsulated rim joists.
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