A frozen pipe is not always an emergency on its own, but it can become one quickly. If the pipe has split, is leaking, or is frozen in a place you cannot reach, treat it as urgent and get help right away.
When It Can Be Handled Carefully
If one faucet gives no water on a cold morning, but you can see the pipe and there are no signs of damage, you may be able to thaw it slowly. Open the faucet, warm the room, and use gentle heat like warm towels. Never use an open flame.
When It Is an Emergency
- Water is spraying, dripping, or pooling near the pipe
- The pipe has a visible bulge, crack, or split
- The frozen section is inside a wall, ceiling, or under a floor
- Several pipes or the whole house has no water
- The frozen pipe is near electrical wiring or outlets
In these cases, close the main water valve first. This keeps water from pouring out when the ice melts.
Why Thawing Can Reveal a Leak
Ice can split a pipe while it is still frozen, but the leak may not show until the ice melts. Watch the pipe closely as it warms. Have towels and a bucket ready. If water starts escaping, shut the main valve right away.
Preventing the Next One
After the pipe is repaired, think about why it froze. Pipes on outside walls, in garages, and in crawl spaces often need insulation. Keeping cabinet doors open and letting faucets drip on very cold nights can also help. Sealing drafts near pipes is a small job that pays off every winter.
If a pipe has already split, calling a plumber for urgent help can stop the damage from spreading. For winter prep around your home, you can get a plumber to point out at-risk pipes. Call JPR Plumbing at (833) 603-1840.