DIY Blockage in Hot Water Pipes

Access the area where the hot water pipe or line is connected. On sinks, the water lines or typically found under the sink inside the cabinet. For washing machines, they are commonly mounted on the wall directly at the appliance hookup. However, for tubs and showers, the water lines are installed inside the walls. These lines can usually be accessed by removing the wooden panel on the opposite side of the wall, directly behind the shower and faucet controls. In most houses, this panel will be inside a closet. Remove the wood access panel by removing the mounting screws with a Phillips screwdriver.

Check first to make sure the hot water supply line is opened by turning the pipe valve to the left. If for any reason it is in the "off" position, turn it to the left and check, then turn on the hot water faucet. This may be an easy fix to the problem. If this does not work, turn the hot water control valve to the right to turn the water supply off.

Use an adjustable wrench to remove the water line at both ends.

Bend a wire coat hanger to make it straight, using a pair of needle nose pliers, if necessary.

Insert the wire hanger into the water line or pipe and shove it through until the blockage is forced free at the other end. Be careful not to lose the wire hanger in the pipe when doing so. Hold onto it so it doesn't get lodged in the pipe, as well.

Reconnect both ends of the hot water line or pipe with the wrench. Turn the hot water valve to the left, to the open position, and then turn on the faucet to test it.

If this works, close the access panel and replace the retaining screws, if the water line was in the wall for a tub or shower.