When water in a faucet freezes, follow these steps: First, shut off the main water supply to prevent further freezing or pipe bursts. Next, use a hairdryer or heat gun to gently warm the faucet and surrounding pipes. Avoid direct contact with frozen sections to prevent thermal shock. If the faucet is completely ice-blocked,凿开冰层后缓慢滴水以释放压力. For recurring issues, insulate exposed pipes with foam or fiberglass sleeves and let water trickle from faucets overnight to maintain temperature. Contact a licensed plumber if damage is severe.

Freezing faucets occur due to rapid temperature drops causing water to crystallize and expand, stressing pipes. Data from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) shows that 1 in 8 homes in cold climates experiences frozen pipes annually, with average repair costs exceeding $5,000. Insulation reduces heat loss by 25-30%, as per the Department of Energy, lowering freeze risk. Thawing methods like heat application work because ice melts at 32°F (0°C), and controlled warming prevents sudden pressure spikes that could rupture pipes. The EPA also notes that allowing faucets to drip maintains pipe temperatures above freezing, mitigating 60% of winter-related failures. Proactive measures like insulation and regular system checks, supported by these statistics, are critical for minimizing damage and ensuring safe water access.