How to Thaw a Frozen Pipe

By eHow Home & Garden Editor

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Frozen pipes can be a huge inconvenience and can cause water damage if they burst. Here are a few quick cures.

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Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

Duct Tape
Heat Lamps
Standard Electric Heaters
Torch Kits
Towels
Blow Dryers
Heating Pads

Step1

Open the faucet nearest the pipe, if possible. Do not force it.

Step2

Wrap the pipe in a towel and secure it with duct tape.

Step3

Pour boiling water over the towel. Repeat until the water has thawed and runs through the faucet.

Step4

Alternatively, wrap the pipe in a heating pad or place a heat lamp next to it. If you lack one of these, try a handheld hair dryer or a small electric heater.

Tips & Warnings

Don't use any electrical appliances if there is standing water.

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Comments

Anonymous said

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on 11/22/2005 Small table lamps or decorating lamps can be placed near the frozen pipes to help speed up the thawing process.

Anonymous said

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on 11/22/2005 1. Place insulation for pipes around the affected pipe. You can buy them at hardware and Home Depot stores. Secure it with tape for pipes. This should be done as a preventative measure for pipes that are located in the basements, or at the entry to the house.

2. If the pipe is located in a small room (like a bathroom) set up a heater near the pipe and close the door for a couple of hours. Be careful not to place the heater near drapes or flammable structures.

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