How to Safely Thaw Frozen Pipes in La Porte, IN

Jan 28, 2026

Winter in La Porte brings a beautiful blanket of snow, but it also poses challenges for homeowners when it comes to plumbing. As temperatures fall, the risk of pipes freezing increases significantly. When water inside your pipes freezes, it expands, elevating the internal pressure. This pressure can cause your pipes to crack or burst, resulting in costly water damage. Taking swift and correct action at the first sign of trouble can be the key to protecting your home.

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Acting quickly when you discover a frozen pipe can prevent severe damage, but handling the thawing process properly is essential to avoid making the situation worse. The specialists at Summers Plumbing Heating & Cooling are here to share safe thawing tips and provide professional assistance whenever you need it.

Identifying Frozen Pipes in Your Home

The first step is to determine which pipes are frozen. Locating the affected pipes helps guide your next steps. To check, try turning off your main water supply, then open various faucets throughout your house. If water only trickles—or doesn’t come out at all—from a particular faucet, the pipe leading to it may be frozen. Always make sure the main water supply is shut off before doing any checks to prevent additional issues.

Visible pipes, particularly those outdoors or running along exterior walls, often show obvious signs of freezing such as frost buildup or swelling from expanding ice. Interior pipes hidden behind walls or ceilings can be difficult to assess visually. If you suspect hidden frozen pipes or are unable to access them safely, it’s best to reach out for professional help to limit damage and avoid unnecessary risks.

Safe Thawing Methods for Frozen Pipes

When you have confirmed a frozen pipe, choosing a safe thawing method makes all the difference. Your safety and the safety of your home should be the top priority throughout the process.

Use a Hair Dryer

A common and gentle way to thaw exposed frozen pipes is by using a hair dryer. Start by aiming the dryer at the pipe section closest to the faucet, moving slowly along the frozen length. Always use caution—do not use electrical devices if you suspect or see signs of a leak, as electricity and water are a dangerous combination.

Warm Towels as an Alternative

If you’re concerned about leaks or want to avoid using electrical appliances, wrapping the frozen pipe with towels soaked in hot water is an effective and safe method. The heat from the towels will gradually warm the pipe, causing the ice within to melt. This may take more time than using a hair dryer, but it’s a good option for pipes in tricky spots.

Try a Heating Pad

For an accessible and consistent heat source, an electric heating pad works well. Wrap the pad around the frozen section and keep the area monitored as it warms. Whichever method you use, keep the affected faucet open to help thawed water flow out, relieving pressure as the ice melts. Remember, never turn your main water valve back on until the pipe is fully thawed to avoid sudden bursts.

What Not to Do: Essential Safety Precautions

Certain thawing approaches can endanger your home. Never use open flames, matches, or torches to thaw pipes. The intense, uncontrolled heat from flames is a major fire risk and can cause pipes to overheat or be damaged. Avoid pouring boiling water onto pipes as well; the extreme temperature difference may cause pipes to fracture.

Always begin thawing near the faucet end of the pipe and work backward. This method allows melting ice to escape through the open faucet, reducing pressure inside the pipe.

Preventing Frozen Pipes in La Porte

Prevention is the best strategy against frozen pipes in the La Porte area. Taking these proactive steps can help keep your plumbing safe throughout the coldest months:

Insulate exposed pipes in attics, basements, crawl spaces, and along exterior walls with pipe insulation or heat tape to keep them warm.
Run a portable space heater in rooms where pipes are vulnerable, such as unfinished basements or garages.
Inspect your home for gaps or cracks near pipe entry points, and seal any drafts with caulk or insulation to keep cold air out.
Disconnect garden hoses, shut off outdoor water supply lines, and drain outdoor faucets.
Install frost-proof hose bibs to add another layer of protection to your outdoor plumbing.
Maintain a steady indoor temperature, even at night or when you’re away, and allow a small trickle of water to flow from faucets during freezing weather to keep water moving.

When to Call a Professional Plumber

Despite your preparation, pipes may still freeze or burst. If your DIY thawing attempts aren’t working, or you’re facing multiple frozen pipes, it’s time to contact a professional plumber in the La Porte area. Licensed plumbing experts can pinpoint the affected sections, thaw pipes safely, and recommend repairs or replacement if there’s damage.

Avoid waiting in hopes that frozen pipes will thaw on their own. The risk of water damage from a crack or burst pipe increases the longer the ice remains. Timely intervention from an experienced plumber saves money, property, and stress.

Protect Your Home from Winter Plumbing Stress

Homeowners in La Porte know how tough winter can be on their pipes, but with the right precautions and quick action, you can minimize your risk. If you’re unsure about handling a frozen pipe, or if you suspect a plumbing emergency, Summers Plumbing Heating & Cooling is here to help. Our dedicated team provides thorough inspections and reliable repairs to keep your home safe all winter long.

Don’t let winter weather take control of your plumbing system. If you need help thawing frozen pipes or want to schedule an inspection, contact Summers Plumbing Heating & Cooling today. Call us at 219-797-6185 or schedule service online for prompt, professional assistance you can trust in the La Porte area. Stay warm and worry-free with help from your local plumbing experts.