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SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/home-c-freeze-thaw

A pipe is frozen. Which thawing method does the City of Bellevue recommend?

Wrap it in rags and pour hot water over them, never flame.

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  1. Tap it with a hammer to crack the ice
  2. Pour hot water over rags wrapped around it ✔
  3. Warm it with a propane torch

Why: Wrap the pipe or faucet in rags and pour hot water over them until water flows. Bellevue says never use an open flame or electric device, because you could cause a fire or electric shock.

Huh, didn't know that: After thawing, remove the wet rags and wrap the pipe with dry insulation to prevent refreezing.

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Scold who? Scold enough out here to go ice fishing!
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References

Answer: Pour hot water over rags wrapped around it. Wrap the pipe or faucet in rags and pour hot water over them until water flows. Bellevue says never use an open flame or electric device, because you could cause a fire or electric shock.

  1. City of Bellevue: Prevent Frozen Pipes bellevuewa.gov/city-government/departments/utilities/manage-your-utility-services/water/prevent-frozen-pipes-and-if-one-breaks
    Never use an open flame or electric device to thaw frozen pipes because you could cause a fire or electric shock.
    Checked 2026-10-10.

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