Thawing Your Own Frozen Pipes

If the frozen pipe is inside your home or business, you can thaw it yourself or with the help of a licensed plumber, however, you will be responsible for all charges (including water from running your tap).

Make sure to never use an open flame to thaw a frozen water pipe. Always use caution when applying any heat source near insulation or other flammable materials.

• Open a cold water tap nearest the frozen section so you will know when the pipe is thawed.
• Apply heat using an electric heating pad wrapped around the pipe or an electric hair dryer.
• You may also use a portable heater with caution, especially around flammable materials.
• Ensure that rooms or crawl spaces where pipes and your water meter are located are properly heated. Under City by-law you must prevent damage to water meters, and this includes keeping them from freezing.