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FROZEN PIPES & COLD-WEATHER FAULTS

Outside Tap Frozen

Outside taps freeze easily because they are exposed. Thaw them gently, keep the supply isolated where possible and inspect for splits before repressurising.

!

Never use a flame, blowtorch or boiling water to thaw frozen pipework

Frozen pipes may already be split. Isolate the supply where possible, open the affected tap slightly and thaw gradually. Keep water away from electrics and be ready for leakage as ice melts.

MOST LIKELY CAUSES

Start with these

Frozen tap body Water trapped inside the valve has frozen.
Frozen pipe behind wall The damage may be indoors or concealed.
No winter isolation The outside branch remained full of water.
Frost-damaged fitting The tap or wall plate may already be cracked.
◫ Symptom variations Match the fault to cold-weather conditions. ⌄
  • No water from outside tap
  • Handle will not move
  • Tap leaks after thawing
  • Wall becomes damp behind tap
  • Crack visible in tap body
✓ Quick checks Work safely before thawing or restoring pressure. ⌄
  1. Check whether one outlet, one branch or the whole property is affected.
  2. Inspect exposed pipework in lofts, garages, cupboards and outside walls.
  3. Open the affected tap slightly.
  4. Isolate the water supply if a split is suspected.
  5. Use only gentle, controlled heat.
If flow returns: inspect carefully for leaks before leaving the system pressurised.
If a split or leak appears: isolate immediately and arrange repair.
1 Step 1 — Isolate the outside-tap branch indoors Use gradual heat and keep suspected damaged pipework isolated. ⌄

Process

Close the local valve before thawing if available.

Success looks like: Any hidden split stays depressurised.
Escalate when: Do not force a seized valve.
2 Step 2 — Apply gentle heat Use gradual heat and keep suspected damaged pipework isolated. ⌄

Process

Use warm towels or a hairdryer on low.

Success looks like: The tap thaws gradually.
Escalate when: Never use flame or boiling water.
3 Step 3 — Inspect before reopening supply Use gradual heat and keep suspected damaged pipework isolated. ⌄

Process

Check the tap body, spindle and wall connection.

Success looks like: No damage is visible.
Escalate when: Repressurise slowly while watching for leaks.
⌁ Common causes explained Why pipes freeze and fail. ⌄

Outside taps freeze easily because they are exposed. Thaw them gently, keep the supply isolated where possible and inspect for splits before repressurising.

Ice expands inside the pipe and can split copper, plastic, joints and valves. The damage may remain hidden until the ice melts and water pressure returns.

⌘ Advanced diagnostics Plumber-level inspection and repair. ⌄
  • Replace frost-damaged tap.
  • Inspect wall plate and hidden connection.
  • Fit internal isolation and drain-off.
  • Add frost-resistant tap protection.
  • Insulate the internal branch.
▣ Parts that may need replacing Common components linked to this fault. ⌄
  • Outside bib tap
  • Wall plate elbow
  • Isolation valve
  • Drain-off valve
  • Pipe insulation
! When to call a plumber Conditions that should end basic troubleshooting. ⌄
  • A pipe has burst or begins leaking as it thaws.
  • The frozen section is concealed.
  • The main stopcock or supply valve is frozen or will not close.
  • Water is near electrical equipment.
  • A loft tank, boiler or unvented system is involved.
  • The property has no water after visible pipework is checked.
? Frequently asked questions Common questions about frozen pipes. ⌄

Can I use a blowtorch to thaw a pipe?

No. Open flames can cause fire, damage pipework and rapidly create steam pressure.

Why does the pipe leak only after thawing?

The ice may temporarily seal a split. Water escapes once the ice melts and pressure returns.

Should I leave a tap open while thawing?

Open the affected tap slightly so melting water and pressure can escape.