- 1). Locate the frozen section. Look over your pipes and check for cracks or splits. Use your fingers and feel for any problems. If you find damage, you will need to repair it first before you thaw the pipes out. Remember if you do need to replace the pipe, to shut the water off at the main. Turn the water back on after you finish.
- 2). Open the water faucet on the frozen section of pipe leading to your sink or tub. This will release any pressure or allow water to escape. As the ice melts, the water will run out the tap. When the ice has melted, the water is free flowing.
- 3). Apply heat to the frozen section of pipe beginning at the section that is closest to the faucet. You can use a hair dryer, set on a low setting. Keep the hair dryer moving across the frozen section of pipe. Another alternative to use is a portable space heater or a heat lamp. If you use either of these, remove anything that may catch fire. You can also wrap the pipe with a towels soaked in hot water. Change the towels when they become cool. Another alternative is to use a heating pad that is grounded and water resistant. Wrap this around the frozen pipe on the lowest heat setting.
- 4). Fill a container with hot water straight from your water faucet. Pour that over the water pipes to help thaw them out. Do not use boiling water as this can cause your pipes to break. Use water that you can still put your hand into and not get burned.
- 5). Open cabinet doors if the pipe is located inside a cabinet. This will help raise the ambient temperature.
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