When a pipe freezes

The procedure

1. Look for water first. Leaks or pools of water mean a burst or a crack. If you see any, go to step 2 straight away.
2. Shut the main. Arlington County's guidance when pipes freeze: shut off the water immediately at the main shutoff valve, so a split pipe can't flood the house as it thaws.
3. Open the faucet. Open the tap the frozen pipe feeds, so melting water has somewhere to go.
4. Warm it slowly. Use a hair dryer or wrap the pipe in warm towels, working from the faucet end back toward the ice.
5. Never use flame. No torch, no kerosene heater, no open flame, and keep heat away from anything that burns.
6. Keep electrical tools dry. Don't use a hair dryer where there is standing water or where you would stand in it.
7. Plumber's step: call a plumbing professional if you suspect a burst pipe or can't find the frozen section.

Where do shore-house pipes usually freeze?

In the open space under an elevated house, in unheated garages and ground-floor storage, on outside walls behind kitchen and bath cabinets, and at outdoor showers. See WW-4.

Why not use a torch?

Emergency managers rule out torches and open flame for a reason: the wood framing, insulation and dust around a pipe catch easily, and the fire may start inside the wall where you can't see it.

The numbers behind it

Questions owners ask

How do I know a pipe is frozen?

A faucet gives a trickle or nothing while others work, and the pipe may feel very cold or show frost.

Should I leave taps dripping in a cold snap?

In an occupied house, a trickle on taps fed by exposed pipes can help. In an empty house it is better drained or heated.

Can a frozen pipe burst after it thaws?

The split happens when it freezes; you often only see the leak once it thaws. Watch the pipe as it warms.