Safely Unfreezing Pipes in Winter: A Homeowner’s Guide
When temperatures drop, frozen pipes and drains quickly become a major headache. Left unchecked, they can crack, burst, and cause serious water damage to your property. Acting fast – and safely – is key.
At Express Drainage Solutions, we know how to keep your home running smoothly, no matter the weather. Here’s how to safely unfreeze pipes during a cold snap.
How to Tell if Your Pipes Are Frozen
First signs include reduced water flow, no water at all, or odd noises when you turn the tap. You might also spot frost on exposed pipes. If you notice any of these, take action straight away to prevent a burst.
Safe Ways to Unfreeze Pipes
- Open the Tap – Before you start thawing, open the tap slightly. This relieves pressure in the system and gives melting water somewhere to go. It also helps speed up the thawing process.
- Apply Gentle Heat – Use a hairdryer, heat lamp, or hot towels to slowly warm the frozen section. Start near the tap and work back towards the frozen area. Never use a blowtorch or open flame – it’s dangerous and could damage your pipes.
- Use Warm Towels – Soak towels in hot water, wring them out, and wrap them around the frozen pipe. Reheat and replace the towels as needed. It’s a slow method, but very safe for delicate pipework.
- Increase Indoor Temperature – Turn up the heating and open cupboard doors to let warm air circulate around pipes, especially those under sinks and behind walls.
- Call the Experts – If you can’t reach the frozen section or if the pipe looks cracked, it’s time to call in professional help. Our emergency drainage services team is on hand 24/7 to deal with urgent problems safely.
Preventing Frozen Pipes
Prevention is always better than cure. Here are some simple steps to protect your home during winter:
Insulate Exposed Pipes: Foam pipe lagging is cheap, easy to fit, and highly effective.
- Keep Heating On: Even a low setting can stop pipes freezing when you’re away.
- Seal Gaps: Block draughts around pipes and drains with sealant or insulation.
- Drain Outdoor Pipes: Disconnect hoses and shut off outdoor taps before the first frost.
For long-term protection, regular drain maintenance is essential. It keeps your drainage system in top condition and spots vulnerabilities before they turn into major problems.
What Not to Do
- Don’t use naked flames – major fire risk.
- Don’t force pipes to thaw quickly – sudden temperature changes can cause cracks.
- Don’t ignore the problem – frozen pipes can burst without warning.
If you suspect a frozen drain rather than a pipe, specialist drain unblocking may be needed. Ice build-up in drains can cause backups and flooding if left untreated.
Need urgent help?
At Express Drainage Solutions, we’re ready to help, whatever the issue. Whether it’s frozen pipes, blocked drains, or burst pipes, contact our team for professional, fast, and safe solutions.