When temperatures drop below freezing, water inside pipes can freeze and expand — often causing the pipe to crack or split. The damage becomes apparent when the ice thaws and water starts leaking. Acting correctly when you suspect a frozen pipe can prevent a far more serious (and expensive) problem.
Signs you have a frozen pipe
How to thaw a frozen pipe safely
**Locate the frozen section.** Look for any pipe runs in unheated spaces — loft, garage, under-floor space, or exterior wall. Flexible pipework insulation often shows frost on the outside.
**Apply gentle heat.** Use a hot water bottle, warm damp towels, or a warm (not hot) hair dryer on a low setting. Start from the end nearest the tap and work back. Do not use a blowtorch or heat gun — these can cause the pipe to burst or ignite nearby materials.
**Open the relevant tap.** Keep the tap open as you thaw — this relieves pressure as the ice melts.
**Check for leaks.** Once flow is restored, inspect the entire visible length of the thawed pipe for cracks or splits. Even a hairline crack will leak once pressure builds.
What if the pipe has split?
Turn off the water supply at the stopcock immediately. Call a plumber to repair or replace the damaged section before turning the water back on.
Prevention for next winter
NBS Plumbing & Heating — **07507 133204**.