Tips for Thawing a Frozen Water Pipe

1/8/2019 (Permalink)

It is very important to thaw a frozen water pipe as quickly as possible, however: it is equally important to thaw the pipe correctly to avoid it from bursting and causing a flood. After locating the frozen pipe:

• Open both the hot and cold faucet handles to help alleviate the pressure in the pipe and allow the water to escape once thawed.
• Begin thawing the pipe closest to the faucet and work your way down which will help to ensure that the melting ice is able to escape through the faucet.
• Several ways of thawing an exposed pipe is to use a hairdryer, heat lamp, portable space heater of hot wet towels. Never use an open flame and always remember to use the electrical devices according to safety regulations.

If the pipe has broken, turn off the water at the main shutoff valve which is usually near the water meter or the water main that enters the house. Call a licensed plumber as soon as possible to repair the broken pipe. If you feel you do not want to take a chance trying to thaw the frozen pipe, he can assist you with that also. If a water cleanup is needed, call SERVPRO of Joliet at 815-436-5735.