Dealing with a frozen water heater? It’s a common problem that homeowners never like to find themselves in, but knowing what to do can help relieve the stress and get your home back up and running as quickly as possible. 

One of the most common questions we receive from homeowners is, “my hot water is frozen, what do I do?” In this article, we’ll cover the basics of what could have caused your water heater to freeze, ways you can thaw out the unit yourself, and scenarios when it is best to hire a professional plumber. 

Check over our advice below so you know how best to tackle this problem with confidence!

If you need help immediately, the professionals at Plumb-Tech Plumbing and Heating are available to help get your water heater back to its proper condition. 

Help! My hot water is frozen, what do I do? 

If your hot water heater is frozen, don’t panic. Wondering what to do if your hot water heater freezes?  

The first step is to establish the source of the problem; it could be an issue with your pipes or water heater.  If the temperature suddenly drops or bad insulation is present on the exterior of your home, then that could lead to a buildup of ice inside the pipe. 

You can try thawing these pipes by running warm water along them from a faucet closest to the water heater or using space heaters around the pipe in question. However if this doesn’t help, it may be best to contact a professional plumber who can examine what is causing the disruption of heat and quickly resolve the issue for you.

What causes a frozen water heater? 

A frozen water heater is often caused by a lack of insulation in the pipes, preventing warm air from circulating around them. This is particularly common in an unfinished basement or attic, or near exterior walls and windows. 

In addition, extremely low temperatures outside can cause a frozen water heater. If you suspect that the cold climate is what’s causing the problem, it’s best to turn off your water heater and run hot water through your pipes every few hours until temperatures rise again. 

Doing this regularly in winter weather can also help keep your water heater functioning properly during colder months. 

How to thaw a frozen hot water heater

If your pipes are frozen, and you want to start working on them before the technician arrives, you may be wondering how to unfreeze a water heater without the assistance of a technician. Here are some steps you can take yourself to get your water heater back up and running again. 

1.  Shut off the water supply

The first step in thawing a frozen hot water heater is to shut off the water supply. This will prevent any more water from entering the tank and freezing. Once the water supply is shut off, you can open the faucets in your home to release any pressure that has built up in the tank.

2.  Disconnect the power supply

The next step is to disconnect the power supply to the hot water heater. This will prevent it from turning on and potentially causing a fire. Once the power is disconnected, you can remove any insulation that is surrounding the tank.

3.  Apply heat to the tank 

Once the water supply and power are both disconnected, you can begin applying heat to the tank. The best way to do this is with a hairdryer or space heater. You should start by applying heat to the bottom of the water heater tank and working your way up.

4.  Turn on the water supply

Once the tank has thawed, you can turn on the water supply and reconnect the power supply. You should then check for any leaks before turning on the hot water heater. If there are no leaks, you can now enjoy hot water in your home once again!

5.  Prevent future issues

To prevent your hot water heater from freezing again in the future, you should insulate it with a blanket or wrap. You should also ensure that the temperature in your home stays above 55 degrees Fahrenheit. 

Remember, even after completing these steps, it’s always wise to book an appointment with a professional so they can double check that your hot water heater is in good working condition. Regular maintenance appointments can prevent any further damage and freezing. 

Conclusion – My hot water is frozen, what do I do? 

Freezing pipes are a major issue during the winter. If you think your hot water is frozen, shut off your water immediately and call a professional. Damage from a frozen hot water heater can be costly, so it’s best to take preventive measures and call a professional as soon as possible.

They will be able to help you thaw your pipes and prevent any further damage.