How To Safely Thaw a Frozen Pipe (And What Not To Do)

A frozen pipe can burst as it thaws. Learn the safe way to thaw it and the mistakes that cause flooding.

When a pipe freezes, you want to thaw it before the ice expansion cracks it — but the wrong method causes a burst or fire.

Open the affected faucet so water and steam can escape. Apply gentle, even heat — a hair dryer, heating pad, or hot-water towels — starting near the faucet.

Never use an open flame or torch. If you can't reach the area or it's already split, shut off the main and call a pro.

None of this replaces a licensed professional. When you want a real pro on the job, PlumbDispatch24 connects you with an independent, locally licensed plumber 24/7 — free to you, and we never quote prices. The local pro handles diagnosis and the estimate directly.