Frozen — Drain Pipe

If you know exactly where the pipe is frozen (usually in a crawl space or against an exterior wall), you can carefully use a hair dryer, heat gun (on a low setting), or a space heater to warm the pipe. Never use an open flame!

Underground sewer lines that are not buried below the frost line are vulnerable to freezing during prolonged cold spells.

Ice or frost on exposed sections of a pipe is a clear sign the water inside is frozen. How to Safely Thaw a Frozen Drain Pipe drain pipe frozen

Gurgling or bubbling sounds from drains when you use other fixtures often suggest a blockage in the main line.

Water failing to drain or backing up into sinks, showers, or floor drains is a primary indicator. If you know exactly where the pipe is

Pipes running through unheated crawl spaces, attics, or against poorly insulated exterior walls are prime candidates for freezing.

If your drain pipe is frozen, you need to act quickly to prevent a backup or a burst pipe. Unlike supply lines, drains usually freeze at "traps" or where pipes are exposed to the outdoors. Immediate Steps to Take Ice or frost on exposed sections of a

Once it's flowing, let the faucet drip slightly during the next freeze. Moving water is much harder to freeze than standing water!