What To Do When a Pipe Freezes?
A frozen pipe is a ticking clock — it can burst at any moment. Act immediately but carefully. Here’s what to do:
1. Locate the frozen pipe
Common locations include pipes along exterior walls, in unheated basements or crawl spaces, under sinks on exterior walls, and in uninsulated attic spaces. If you can’t find it, call us immediately.
2. Shut off the main water valve
Find your main shutoff valve — typically near the water meter — and turn it off. If the pipe bursts while frozen, this prevents flooding. Turn clockwise until fully closed.
3. Open the faucet connected to the frozen pipe
Open both hot and cold taps. This relieves pressure as the ice melts and gives the water somewhere to go when thawing begins.
4. Apply gentle heat if the pipe is accessible
Use a hair dryer, heating pad, or warm towels on the frozen section. Never use open flame, propane torches, or high-heat devices — they can damage pipes and create fire hazards.
5. Do not leave the pipe unattended
A frozen pipe under pressure can burst suddenly. Stay nearby and watch for signs of cracking or bulging.
6. Call (508) 500-1547 for professional frozen pipe thawing
If you cannot locate the frozen pipe, if it’s inside a wall or ceiling, or if you suspect it may already be cracked, stop and call us immediately. Professional thawing is always safer than DIY attempts.
Why Frozen Pipes Are So Dangerous
A frozen pipe isn’t just an inconvenience — it’s a structural threat. When water freezes inside a pipe, it expands with enormous pressure, stretching and weakening the pipe walls. The real danger arrives during thawing, when that pressure releases suddenly.
Frozen pipes left untreated can lead to:
Catastrophic burst — A single burst pipe can release hundreds of gallons of water per hour into your walls, floors, and foundation
Mold growth — Water damage from a burst pipe creates the perfect environment for mold within 24-48 hours
Structural damage — Water saturates drywall, insulation, flooring, and framing, causing rot and long-term instability
Electrical hazard — Water from a burst pipe near electrical panels or outlets creates serious shock and fire risk
Foundation risk — Prolonged water exposure undermines slab and foundation integrity, especially in older MetroWest homes
MetroWest Massachusetts winters are among the harshest in the Northeast. Temperatures regularly drop below freezing for extended periods, putting uninsulated and exterior pipes at severe risk from December through March. Acting fast is the difference between a quick service call and a full restoration project.