Frozen pipes — no water in extreme cold

Common Causes

1. Pipes in exterior walls with insufficient insulation
2. Pipes in unheated crawlspaces or garages
3. Acreage service lines too shallow or uninsulated
4. Cabinet doors under exterior sinks left closed during cold snap
5. Heating failure during extreme cold (-30°C to -35°C events)

What You Can Try First

1. Open the affected faucet to relieve pressure as the pipe thaws
2. Apply gentle heat starting from the faucet end working back toward the frozen section: use a hair dryer, electric heat tape, or hot towels — never use an open flame or propane torch
3. Check for bursts as the pipe thaws — turn off the main supply if water sprays
4. Do not leave the pipe unattended while thawing

When to Call a Pro

• You cannot locate the frozen section
• The frozen section is in a wall cavity or under a concrete slab
• The pipe has burst during thawing
• You suspect the main service line between the well or meter and the home is frozen

Alberta Context

Central Alberta experiences average January lows of -14°C in Innisfail, with extreme cold events reaching -35°C or colder most winters. Pipe freezing risk begins when outdoor temperatures drop below -20°C for extended periods, particularly when wind chill is factored in. On rural acreages, the buried water service line from the well to the home is a common freeze point if buried less than 2.1 metres deep (Alberta code minimum for frost depth). Heat trace cable on vulnerable service lines is the most cost-effective preventive measure.