How to Prevent and Thaw Frozen Pipes in a Vermont Winter
Frozen pipes are the top winter plumbing emergency in Vermont. Learn how to prevent them, how to safely thaw a frozen pipe, and what to do if a pipe bursts.
Where pipes freeze first
Exterior walls, unheated crawlspaces, garages and the line to an outdoor spigot freeze first. Cabinets under sinks on outside walls are the classic spot.
Prevention
Insulate exposed lines, open cabinet doors on cold nights, keep heat at 55 or above when away, disconnect hoses and let a faucet drip during deep cold snaps.
Safe thawing
Open the faucet, then warm the pipe with a hair dryer or warm towels starting nearest the faucet. Never use an open flame.
If it bursts
Shut off the main water valve immediately and call our 24 hour emergency plumbers. We repair burst pipes and reroute freeze-prone lines.
Need help now?
Our burst pipe repair plumbers are available 24/7 across Vermont. Call (888) 480-9811.