When you need frozen pipe repair
- No water or a trickle at one or more fixtures in freezing weather
- Frost visible on an exposed pipe
- A toilet that will not refill on a cold morning
- Pipes in unheated spaces after a deep cold snap
How it works
- Open the affected faucet so melting water can flow and relieve pressure.
- Apply gentle heat working from the faucet back toward the frozen section: a hair dryer, warm towels, or a space heater kept a safe distance from flammable materials.
- Open cabinet doors to let warm room air reach pipes on exterior walls.
- Once flow returns, check the full length of the pipe for leaks.
- If the pipe is inaccessible or does not thaw, a plumber may use specialized thawing equipment or open access.
Limits and when it’s not the right fix
- Never use an open flame, propane torch or charcoal heater to thaw pipes.
- If you cannot find the frozen section, or the pipe is inside a wall, professional help avoids damage.
- If a pipe has already split, shut off the main before thawing.
What affects the cost
We don’t publish national price figures because real quotes vary too much by region, access and the condition of your system. These are the factors that move the price:
- Location of the frozen section
- Whether the pipe has split
- Access through walls or crawl spaces
- Prevention work such as insulation or heat cable
Ask for a written quote that names the method, materials and any permit or restoration work before work begins.
Frozen Pipe Repair: common questions
How do I know if my pipes are frozen?
In freezing weather, little or no water from a faucet is the most common sign. You may also see frost on exposed pipe or notice a toilet that does not refill.
Should I leave faucets dripping in freezing weather?
Letting a faucet on an exterior wall drip slightly keeps water moving and relieves pressure in the line, which reduces the chance of a split. Many utilities recommend it during hard freezes.
At what temperature do pipes freeze?
Pipes in unheated spaces become at risk when outdoor temperatures stay well below freezing for several hours. Wind, insulation and pipe location matter more than any single temperature.
Can I use a heat gun on frozen pipes?
A heat gun can overheat plastic pipe and solder joints and can ignite nearby materials. A hair dryer or warm towels is safer.
How do I keep pipes from freezing again?
Insulate exposed pipe, seal drafts near pipes, keep the heat on when away, disconnect hoses, and consider rerouting pipes out of exterior walls. Thermostatically controlled heat cable is an option for some exposed runs.
