Short & direct
If a water pipe is frozen, first close the main stopcock and open the affected tap. Then thaw the pipe slowly from the tap end using warm towels, a hairdryer or a fan heater – never an open flame. If the pipe bursts while thawing, call the water emergency service immediately.
During hard frost in the Limmattal it can happen quickly: no water comes out of the tap because the pipe has frozen. With the right approach you can thaw a frozen water pipe safely – and avoid an expensive burst.
Immediate steps when the pipe is frozen
- Close the main stopcock – this limits the damage if the pipe has already cracked.
- Open the affected tap – this releases pressure from the system and lets the meltwater drain.
- Thaw slowly – start at the tap end and work towards the frozen spot. Suitable tools are warm towels, a hairdryer or a fan heater.
What you must never do
Caution: Never thaw with an open flame (blowtorch, candle). It poses a fire risk, and the pipe can burst from the rapid expansion. Pouring boiling water directly onto the pipe is also off-limits.
How to prevent frost damage
- Drain and shut off outdoor and garden lines before winter.
- Insulate pipes in unheated rooms (cellar, attic, garage).
- Keep a minimum temperature – don’t let empty rooms cool down completely.
- Leave cabinet and cellar doors open in the cold so warmth reaches the pipes.
If the pipe bursts: call the emergency service
If the pipe ruptures, every minute counts. Close the main stopcock and call us. How to react correctly to water damage in a rented flat is covered in our article on water-damage emergencies.
Our 24/7 emergency on-call service reaches you fast across Zürich and the Limmattal.
In an emergency, call now: +41 44 747 06 61 – or request your free quote.
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