A frozen pipe may not leak until the ice plug begins to thaw. Stay near the main shutoff while warming an accessible pipe and stop immediately if water appears.
Why frozen pipes leak during a thaw
Ice blocks flow while pressure builds in the trapped section of pipe. A split can remain sealed by ice, then release water when the line warms. That delay is why a pipe that appears stable can become an active loss later.
Safe thawing basics
- Open the affected faucet.
- Warm the pipe gradually with warm towels, a hair dryer, or another flameless heat source.
- Work from the faucet side toward the frozen section so meltwater can escape.
- Never use a torch, open flame, or unattended heater.
Check beyond the frozen section
Inspect nearby cabinets, the room below, exterior-wall cavities, and flooring edges. If the pipe is concealed, inaccessible, or has already split, leave it shut off and arrange professional help.