Frozen pipe? How to thaw it safely, what not to do and how to stop it happening again. Call 020 8050 9933, open 24/7.
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Water expands as it freezes and can split a pipe. Thawing it gently and quickly lowers the risk of a burst. These are the safe steps, and the mistakes to avoid.
No water or only a trickle from a tap, and a frosty or very cold pipe, are common signs. A frozen condensate pipe can also stop a boiler working in cold weather.
Switch off the water at the stopcock. If the pipe has already split, this limits the flooding when it thaws. Open the affected tap so water can flow as the ice melts.
Warm the pipe slowly with a hairdryer on a low setting, a hot water bottle or warm towels, starting nearest the tap and working back along the pipe. Keep electrical items away from water.
Never use a blowtorch, naked flame or boiling water on a pipe. It can damage the pipe and cause fires or burns. Do not leave a heat source unattended.
Turn the water back on slowly and check pipes and joints for leaks and damp patches. If you find a split pipe, turn the water off again and call a plumber.
Insulate exposed pipes in lofts, garages and outside walls, fix dripping taps, and keep the heating on low during very cold spells. Know where your stopcock is.
Yes. We take emergency bookings 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. A call-out fee applies, shown before you pay.
Burst pipe repair is typically £100 - £200 including VAT, plus the call-out fee.
Many policies cover damage from burst pipes but terms vary. Check your policy and contact your insurer early.