City Utilities offers these tips to thaw pipes.
- If you know where the freeze-up is located and the pipe is exposed, you may be able to thaw the pipe with a hair dryer set on a low setting. Wave the stream of warm air back and forth along the pipe until water begins flowing through the pipe. Never use a torch or open flame to thaw a pipe.
- If the frozen pipe is not exposed, shut off the main water valve and set up a portable heater where the pipes enter the house. It may take some time, but eventually all the pipes in the house will warm up. If you are using this method, do not leave the space heater unattended. You'll know it's OK when you switch on the main valve, turn on the faucet and water runs out.
- If a pipe leaks or breaks, residents should shut off the water at the master shut-off valve as quickly as possible to prevent flooding and water damage. Unless you are an experienced do-it-yourselfer, you may need to call a plumber to repair the break or leak.
- Most homes have a master valve. The valve is usually located in a spot near where the main water line enters the house.