How To Fix A Frozen Drain [ TOP-RATED · 2025 ]

A frozen drain can be a frustrating and potentially costly issue, especially during the cold winter months. When a drain freezes, it can cause water to back up and potentially lead to burst pipes, which can result in costly repairs. In this post, we'll walk you through the steps to fix a frozen drain and provide some tips on how to prevent it from happening in the future.

❌ Do NOT use: propane torch, boiling water on PVC, electrical thawing devices unless specified safe. how to fix a frozen drain

If you’ve tried these methods for over an hour and the water still isn't moving—or if you see a visible crack in the pipe—shut off your main water valve immediately and call a plumber. A "thawed" pipe that is actually "burst" will turn into a flood the moment the ice melts. A frozen drain can be a frustrating and

Set up a space heater directed toward the frozen section of the pipe. ❌ Do NOT use: propane torch, boiling water

Fire is not your first move; chemistry is.

✅ Insulate exposed pipes (foam sleeves or heat tape). ✅ Seal cracks in foundation / exterior walls. ✅ Keep cabinet doors open under sinks (during extreme cold). ✅ Let a small trickle of water run overnight. ✅ Disconnect and drain outdoor hoses before winter. ✅ Install frost-proof sillcocks.