When a water pipe freezes, follow these steps: 1) Keep indoor temperatures above 32°F (0°C) to prevent further freezing. 2) Run a slow trickle of water from taps connected to the frozen pipe to relieve pressure. 3) Use a hairdryer or heating pad on a low setting to gradually thaw the pipe. 4) Avoid using space heaters or open flames near pipes. 5) Contact a licensed plumber if ice blocks the pipe completely. To prevent future issues, insulate exposed pipes and seal gaps around windows and doors.

Pipe bursts from freezing pipes cause significant property damage, with the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) reporting that such incidents account for 15% of all water-related insurance claims annually. Thawing methods like applying heat directly to pipes are effective because rapid temperature changes can cause stress cracks. According to the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), insulating pipes with foam sleeves reduces freezing risks by 90%, as frozen pipes typically burst when water pressure exceeds 80 psi. A 2021 study by the American Water Works Association found that 40% of household pipe bursts occur in January and February due to prolonged cold snaps. Letting water flow at a trickle costs approximately $1.50 per day but can prevent $5,000+ in repair costs. The DOE also notes that proper insulation costs $10–$20 per 100 linear feet of pipe, a fraction of the average $4,000 repair expense. Maintaining temperatures above 32°F and using pipe insulation materials like foam rubber or fiberglass can mitigate risks, as 70% of burst pipes are preventable with these measures.