Frozen pipes: prevent, thaw and handle a burst

During a cold snap

• Let cold water drip from faucets served by exposed pipes. Even a trickle helps prevent freezing.
• Open kitchen and bathroom cabinet doors so warm air reaches the pipes. Move cleaners out of children’s reach.
• Keep the garage door closed if water lines run through the garage.
• Keep the thermostat at the same temperature day and night. You may pay a little more to heat, but the Red Cross notes it can prevent a much costlier repair.

How to thaw a frozen pipe safely

If you turn on a faucet and only a trickle comes out, suspect a frozen pipe. The Red Cross recommends:

• Keep the faucet open so water can flow as the ice melts.
• Warm the frozen section with an electric heating pad, a hair dryer, a space heater kept away from anything flammable, or towels soaked in hot water.
• Never use a blowtorch, kerosene or propane heater, charcoal stove or any open flame.
• Keep heating until full water pressure returns, then check the other faucets. If one pipe froze, others may have too.
• Call a licensed plumber if you can’t find or reach the frozen spot, or it won’t thaw.

If a pipe bursts: the first hour

• Shut off the main water valve. Then open a faucet to drain the remaining water.
• Stay safe around electricity. If water is near outlets, cords or the electrical panel, don’t wade in. Turn off power only if you can reach the panel safely.
• Document everything. Take photos and video of the damage and the broken pipe before cleanup, and keep receipts.
• Call your insurer. Ask what they cover and whether they need to inspect before repairs.
• Start drying fast. EPA advises drying water-damaged areas within 24 to 48 hours to help prevent mold growth.

Will insurance cover it?

The National Association of Insurance Commissioners says homeowners policies cover damage from a “sudden and accidental” discharge from plumbing, and often cover burst-pipe damage if you took reasonable steps to keep pipes from freezing. Policies generally require you to keep the home at a minimum temperature or shut off the water if it’s vacant. If the insurer decides you neglected the plumbing, the damage may not be covered. Check your own policy; our home and renters insurance guide explains what to look for.

Avoid cleanup scams

After a big freeze, be careful with anyone who shows up unannounced, wants a large cash deposit or pressures you to sign right away. Get written estimates, check licenses (Illinois plumbers are licensed by the Illinois Department of Public Health), and read the FTC’s tips on post-disaster scams.