How to Defrost Frozen Baseboard Heaters

When cold weather strikes, baseboard heaters are at risk of freezing. The water running through your baseboard heating system will freeze if there are low temperatures caused by power outages or alternative heating sources are being used in your home. These conditions prevent the system from working properly and will potentially damage your pipes. Calling in a professional to clear the ice from a frozen baseboard heater takes both time and money. Fortunately, there are ways a homeowner can tackle a frozen heater before having to shell out for help.

Hair dryer
Space heater
Heating pad

Instructions

- 1
  Locate the main water valve leading into your baseboard heating system and shut off the water supply. This prevents additional water from filling the system and causing damage if a pipe has burst.
- 2
  Inspect the baseboard heating pipe visually to determine where the blockage occurred. There may be ice or frost on the pipe, or it may be distended from expansion as the ice formed. Isolate this area and move your furniture and belongings away from the area.
- 3
  Set a hairdryer to high heat and apply hot air to the frozen area of pipe. If the pipe is behind a wall, use a space heater or heat lamps on the area to warm the pipe. Continue applying heat until the pipe is defrosted and water moves freely through the system again.
- 4
  Check the pipe for leaks and damage and turn the water supply back on. Monitor the area for leaks.

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