Water has a unique property in that it expands as it freezes. This expansion puts tremendous pressure on whatever is containing it, including metal or plastic pipes. No matter the strength of a container, expanding water can cause pipes to break. If your pipes freeze due to the cold temperatures:
- Turn off your water to reduce pressure on the frozen pipes and minimize flooding.
- Thaw frozen pipes with a hair dryer, hot towel, space heater or a heat lamp.
- Never use an open flame to thaw frozen pipes.
- If you turn on a faucet and only a trickle comes out, suspect a frozen pipe. Likely places for frozen pipes include against exterior walls or where your water service enters your home through the foundation.
- Keep the faucet open. As you treat the frozen pipe and the frozen area begins to melt, water will begin to flow through the frozen area. Running water through the pipe will help melt ice in the pipe.
Red Cross