How to Safely Defrost Frozen Pipes

With the cold setting in, CBJ Utilities division shares how to defrost any frozen pipes you might have.

1. Locate the frozen section
   • Check unheated areas: basements, crawl spaces, garages, and exterior walls. The most likely frozen place is where your water line exits the ground to enter the home.
   • Look for pipes that are very cold to the touch or frosted.

1. Open the faucet
   • Turn on both the hot and cold handles a small amount.
   • Running water helps melt ice and relieves pressure as the pipe thaws.

1. Warm the pipe gradually

Use one of the following methods:

• Heat Tape: an electric tape made for keeping pipes warm. Available at most hardware stores.
• Portable space heater: Keep at a safe distance and never leave unattended.
• Open Cabinets: open cabinet doors to allow radiant heat from the home to reach the plumbing.

Never use open flames-no torches, no lighters, no blowtorches. These can cause fires, burst pipes, or carbon monoxide poisoning.

1. Keep warming until full water pressure returns

Be patient-slow and steady warming is safest.

1. Prevent future freezing
   • Let faucets drip during extreme cold, especially overnight.
   • Keep cabinet doors open to let warm air reach pipes.
   • Add insulation to exposed piping.
   • Seal drafts around windows, doors, and foundations.

1. Know when to call a professional

If you can't find the frozen spot, can't restore water, or suspect a burst pipe, contact a licensed plumber immediately. CBJ is unable to thaw private lines.