Discovering and dealing with a pipe frozen in the middle of winter can be frustrating and costly if left untreated. When a pipe freezes, the water inside expands, putting immense pressure on the pipe walls. As it thaws, the contraction of the water can weaken the pipe further. Over time, this repeated freezing and thawing cycle can lead to cracks or even cause the pipe to burst, resulting in costly repairs.
In this article, we will guide you through effective methods to safely thaw frozen pipes and share practical tips to prevent pipes from freezing—and bursting—in the future, helping you avoid being without running water and expensive plumbing problems further down the line.
Causes Of Frozen Pipes
Understanding why a pipe frozen is such a common issue during winter is important in helping you prevent it in the future. The key causes are:
- Sub-zero temperatures
- Uninsulated (or poorly insulated) pipework
- Prolonged inactivity in the plumbing system
When the winter kicks in, and temperatures drops below zero, the water within exposed or uninsulated pipework will be susceptible to freezing. This could leave you without running water, as well as susceptible to bursting pipes.
Many homeowners remember to turn off the water supply to their outdoor taps before temperatures plummet to freezing levels, whether to prevent frozen pipes during the winter or while they are away on a winter holiday. However, many forget an equally key step: running the tap to release any remaining water from the pipework. If water is left trapped in the pipes, even with the supply turned off, it can freeze during extreme cold, potentially leading to damage.
Pipes can freeze very quickly – often within 6 to 8 hours – leaving little room for error or delay!
Signs Your Pipe Is Frozen
Warning signs that your pipework is frozen or burst are:
- Lack of water, or no water at all, coming out of your taps could be a sign of a pipe frozen somewhere in your system.
- Central heating making a gurgling sound or in lockout.
- Strange noises or smells from the plumbing system.
- Your boiler will not switch on.
- The toilet will not flush.
- Visible frost on the exterior of the pipe.
IF YOU SUSPECT A PIPE HAS FROZEN, TURN OFF YOUR INSIDE STOP TAP IMMEDIATELY. It is usually located under the kitchen sink but can also be found in the cupboard under the stairs, downstairs loo, or bathroom, or in a kitchen cupboard or garage.
Do not wait for a frozen pipe to turn into a costly disaster — contact Maintracts Services now for fast, reliable help and expert advice!
How To Thaw A Frozen Pipe
When you have located the frozen pipe section (which can be challenging in itself), turn off the water supply to prevent the pipe bursting.
The best approach to thawing out a pipe is to go slow and steady. Direct heat can cause permanent damage to the pipes so always gradually thaw the pipe using methods like:
- Warm towels or rags soaked in hot water
- Hot water bottles
- Hairdryers
- Heating cables
SAFETY TIPS
1) Never use an open flame to thaw a pipe that is frozen, as this can damage the pipe and cause a fire.
2) Turn on nearby cold taps (keep the stop tap turned off) as this will relieve pressure on the frozen pipe.
What To Do If You Have A Burst Pipe
As with all water emergencies, the first thing to do in the event of a burst pipe is to turn off the water supply coming into your property at the stop tap and switch off your boiler. To be extra safe, turn off your electrics at the fuse box in case water has leaked near to them.
Once the water and boiler are both off, it is a matter of damage limitation:
- Turn on all your taps to drain the system as quickly as possible, saving some water in a bucket for flushing the toilet and handwashing. When the water stops running, turn all the taps off again.
- Soak up water that has escaped with towels.
- Call a skilled, approved, and experienced plumber (like the Maintracts Services team), who is qualified to work on the plumbing system in your home.
View our Ten Easy Things You Should Do In The Event Of a Burst Pipe for more expert tips.
How To Prevent Pipes From Freezing
1
Ensure you know where your stop tap is and learn how to operate it
so you can act quickly in an emergency and limit damage.
2
Keep your heating on during cold spells
if you are going away on a winter break, leave your heating on low rather than turning off completely. If you go away, ask a neighbour to check inside your home occasionally to check all is well and there are no signs of leaks.
3
Insulate all pipes in exposed areas
this includes the pipes in your roof space or loft, or other areas that may be vulnerable to the cold.
5
Have the telephone number of your chosen qualified plumber to hand.
Our number here at Maintracts is 020 8131 5245 and you will speak directly to an experienced, approved plumber direct. Keep the phone number by the boiler or stop tap.
By taking these preventative measures, you can avoid dealing with the inconvenience of a pipe frozen this winter.
When To Call A Professional
Sometimes, DIY solutions are not enough, particularly if the pipe is completely frozen and inaccessible or if the pipe has burst. If you are struggling with a pipe frozen beyond repair or are just not comfortable trying to thaw out a pipe yourself, we completely understand. Our professional plumbers at Maintracts Services are here to help. You can contact us online, or call us direct on 020 8131 5245.
Why Choose Maintracts Services for Frozen Pipe Issues?
We have worked in the industry since 1974 and in that time have not only gained extensive hands-on experience and expertise, but we have earned ourselves a reputation to be proud of.
We are quick to respond to all enquiries, but for emergency plumbing issues, you can contact us 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. We understand how to resolve plumbing, heating, electrical and drainage issues effectively and with minimal disruption.
Do not let a frozen pipe ruin your winter – contact Maintracts Services today for fast and reliable assistance.
Oliver Osmore has been part of Maintracts Services since 2001, following in his father’s footsteps. As Managing Director, he ensures the company runs smoothly, supports customers and engineers, and thrives on solving complex problems others can’t. Highly organised and approachable, Oliver works closely with customers to deliver tailored solutions, drawing on his extensive experience in plumbing, heating, and electrical services to resolve enquiries efficiently.
Since 1974, Maintracts Services has built a reputation for high-quality installation, maintenance, and repairs. Under Oliver’s leadership, the company remains committed to professionalism, safety, and customer satisfaction.
FAQs About Frozen Pipes
How Long Does It Take For A Frozen Pipe To Thaw?
Thawing a frozen pipe can take anywhere from 30 minutes to several hours, depending on the extent of the freezing and the method used. It is important to thaw the pipe gradually to avoid causing further stress or damage.
How Do I Unfreeze A Frozen Condensate Pipe?
Read our guide on How to Safely Thaw a Frozen Condensate Pipe for full details.
Can A Frozen Pipe Burst Even After It Thaws?
Yes, pipes are at risk of bursting during or after thawing due to the pressure buildup caused by expanding ice. That is why it is essential to carefully monitor the process and check for leaks or cracks once the pipe has thawed.
Do Outdoor Taps And Garden Hoses Need Special Attention In Winter?
Yes, outdoor taps and hoses are highly susceptible to freezing. Turn off the water supply to outdoor taps, disconnect and drain hoses, and ensure all residual water is released from the pipework. For added protection, use insulated covers for outdoor taps.
Is Pipe Insulation Enough To Prevent Freezing During Extremely Cold Weather?
While pipe insulation reduces the risk of freezing, it is not foolproof in extreme temperatures. Additional measures, like keeping the heat on, sealing drafts, and allowing faucets to drip, provide added protection during severe cold spells.
