Frozen Pipes and How Steam Thawing Can Save Your Home This Coming Winter

Winter in Anchorage, AK, brings the beauty of snow but also the chilling risk of frozen pipes. When temperatures drop, the water inside your pipes can freeze, leading to blockages and, if left untreated, potentially disastrous pipe bursts. Frozen pipes don’t just disrupt your water supply; they can also cause costly water damage if the ice expands and breaks the pipes. Fortunately, steam thawing is an effective, safe, and efficient way to address this issue. At ASAP Sewer and Drain, Inc., we’re here to help you keep your pipes safe this winter.

In this guide, we’ll cover the causes of frozen pipes, the dangers they pose, and how steam thawing can be your best defense. Read on to understand why steam thawing is the right solution for your home and how our team can assist you.

Pipes freeze when temperatures dip below 32°F, causing the water inside to solidify. Homes in Anchorage are particularly susceptible because of Alaska’s extended periods of extreme cold. However, it’s not just the cold that freezes pipes—air leaks, poor insulation, and pipe location all contribute. Pipes in unheated areas like basements, garages, attics, or exterior walls are at a higher risk of freezing.



Frozen pipes are problematic for several reasons. For one, a frozen pipe restricts water flow, which may lead to a total loss of water supply if multiple pipes are affected. More critically, as water freezes, it expands, putting immense pressure on the pipes. This expansion can cause them to crack or even burst, potentially leading to thousands of dollars in water damage.

Recognizing the signs of frozen pipes early can save you from more extensive damage. Here are some common indicators to watch for:

• No Water Flow: If water stops coming out of the faucet, especially during freezing temperatures, it’s likely due to a frozen pipe.
• Frost on the Pipes: Visible frost or ice on exposed pipes is a clear sign of freezing.
• Unusual Smells: If a drain smells strange, it could indicate a blockage caused by ice in the pipe, causing sewer gases to get trapped.
• Unusual Sounds: If you hear unusual banging, clanking, or gurgling noises when you turn on the faucet, this could indicate that ice is blocking the water’s flow.

If you observe any of these signs, it's wise to take action promptly. Steam thawing is one of the safest and most effective methods to restore water flow without damaging your pipes.

Steam thawing is a highly effective method for thawing frozen pipes. Unlike some traditional thawing methods, such as using blowtorches or open flames, which pose fire hazards, steam thawing is safe and minimizes the risk of pipe damage.

Here’s how steam thawing works:

• Controlled Heat: Steam thawing uses low-pressure, high-temperature steam, which is directed into the frozen pipe. This controlled heat gently melts the ice inside the pipe without causing any damage to the pipe itself.
• Efficient and Fast: Steam thawing is quick, especially compared to other methods, as it can target ice blockages directly and melt them faster.
• Preventative and Safe: Using steam allows for a uniform distribution of heat, reducing the risk of over-pressurizing or damaging the pipe’s structure. Since steam is natural and non-invasive, there’s no risk of introducing chemicals or other contaminants into your pipes.

By choosing steam thawing, you’re opting for a method that preserves the integrity of your pipes and prevents potential water damage that can occur with other methods.

At ASAP Sewer and Drain, Inc., we have extensive experience dealing with frozen pipes in Anchorage, AK. Our team is trained to handle steam thawing safely and effectively, and we understand the specific challenges presented by Alaska’s cold winters.



Our process begins with a comprehensive assessment to locate the frozen sections of your plumbing system. We then use specialized steam thawing equipment to melt the ice inside the pipe. Because we prioritize safety and effectiveness, you can trust that we’ll work carefully to prevent damage to your plumbing.

Once we’ve thawed your pipes, we can also provide advice on preventative measures to avoid freezing issues in the future. This may include recommendations for insulation, pipe wrapping, or heating cables.

While steam thawing can resolve frozen pipe issues, prevention is always the best approach. Here are some tips to help you avoid frozen pipes this winter:

• Insulate Exposed Pipes: Wrap pipes in unheated areas with insulation or heat tape. This extra layer of protection helps prevent the water inside from freezing.
• Keep the Heat On: Even when you’re away, keep your home’s temperature at 55°F or above to reduce the chances of freezing.
• Open Cabinet Doors: Allow warm air to circulate around pipes in kitchen and bathroom cabinets, especially those located along exterior walls.
• Seal Cracks and Holes: Check for any drafts near pipes, especially around windows, doors, and in the basement. Sealing these gaps can keep cold air away from pipes.
• Drip Faucets: Allowing faucets to drip slightly can relieve pressure and reduce the risk of a burst pipe.



While these steps can help, severe cold spells may still pose a risk. If your pipes do freeze, reach out to ASAP Sewer and Drain, Inc. for immediate assistance.

Don’t let frozen pipes ruin your winter. At ASAP Sewer and Drain, Inc., we’re here to help Anchorage homeowners stay safe and warm by preventing the costly damage associated with frozen pipes. Our expert team offers reliable steam thawing services designed to handle Alaska’s coldest conditions, restoring water flow quickly and safely.

If you suspect frozen pipes or want to learn more about preventing them, give us a call at (907) 717-9777. We also provide hydro jetting, drain snaking, and sewer camera inspection. Let our skilled professionals help protect your plumbing and keep your home secure all winter long.