Winter weather may be mild in many parts of California, but cold snaps can still put stress on your home’s plumbing. When outdoor temperatures dip, water inside exposed pipes can freeze, expand, and cause everything from reduced water flow to cracked or burst pipes. Knowing how to thaw a frozen pipe safely can help you avoid costly damage and uncomfortable surprises.
Here’s a clear guide on how to handle frozen pipes and what steps you should take to prevent them in the first place.
Recognize the Signs of a Frozen Pipe
Before you attempt to thaw anything, confirm that the pipe is actually frozen. Some common signs include:
- No water flow when you turn on a faucet
- Frost or bulging on exposed pipe areas
- Strange odors from the drains
- Abnormally low water pressure
If you notice any of these symptoms during cold weather, a frozen pipe may be the culprit.
How to Safely Thaw a Pipe
When it comes to thawing, safety is the priority. Pipes can be damaged if frozen water expands, so take a gentle approach:
Open the Faucet First
Before applying heat, turn on the faucet connected to the frozen pipe. As the ice begins to melt, running water helps wash it out more quickly.
Use Safe Heat Sources
Never use an open flame. Instead, choose one of the following:
- Hair dryer: Hold it a few inches from the pipe and move it slowly along the frozen area.
- Electric heat tape or heating pad: Wrap it around the pipe and plug it in.
- Warm towels: Soak towels in hot water and drape them over the pipe.
Work slowly and methodically, moving from the faucet end back toward the frozen section. This allows the melting ice to flow out instead of trapping water further inside the pipe.
Avoid These Dangerous Methods
- Open flames or blowtorches can easily start a fire
- High-heat devices plugged into unsafe outlets can lead to electrical hazards
- Ice picks or blunt tools can damage the pipe itself
If a pipe has already cracked or burst, you should shut off the main water supply immediately and avoid trying to thaw it yourself.
Prevent Frozen Pipes This Winter
Prevention can save a lot of trouble. Insulate exposed pipes, seal drafts around foundation or attic spaces, let faucets drip slightly on especially cold nights, and keep interior doors open to maintain warm air circulation.
If you’ve found a frozen pipe or suspect damage after a cold spell, it’s important to act quickly. Inland Dry Pro offers professional leak detection and repair services to homeowners in Riverside and throughout the Inland Empire. Our experienced technicians can locate hidden leaks, assess pipe damage, and recommend practical, non-invasive repairs.
Visit us online to learn more about free leak inspections and the full range of plumbing services available to protect your home this season.