Troubleshooting
Frozen Pipes: What to Do (and What Not to)
If a pipe is frozen, shut off the main in case it's already split, open the affected faucet, and thaw gently with warm air, never an open flame. If you have no water after a hard freeze in Flagstaff or Prescott, assume a frozen or burst line and call before it thaws and floods.
What to do right now
- Shut off the main now. If the frozen pipe is already split, it'll gush the moment it thaws, and the shutoff is your protection.
- Open the affected faucet so melting water has somewhere to go and to relieve pressure.
- Thaw gently with a hair dryer, heat lamp, or warm towels, never a torch or open flame. If you can't reach the frozen section or suspect a split, call before it thaws.
Likely causes
- Exposed lines in crawlspaces, exterior walls, or unheated areas
- Vacant cabins and second homes left without heat
- Hose bibs and supply lines without insulation or heat tape
- A hard overnight freeze at elevation
When to call a pro
If the quick fixes do not solve it, this is usually a frozen & burst pipe repair job. Liberty dispatches 24/7 with upfront pricing.
Frozen Pipes: What to Do (and What Not to), FAQ
- Should I shut off the water if a pipe is frozen?
- Yes. If the pipe has already split from the ice, shutting the main is what keeps it from flooding when it thaws. Then open the faucet and thaw it gently.
- How do I keep pipes from freezing in the high country?
- Insulate exposed lines, add heat tape, keep the heat on in vacant homes, and let a faucet drip in a hard freeze. For cabins and second homes, full winterization is the reliable fix.
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