How to safely defrost a frozen condensate pipe

What is condensate?

When your home’s gas boiler is working correctly, it produces water as a by-product known as condensate. It’s removed from the boiler by the condensate pipe. In cold weather, it’s possible for this pipe to freeze, stopping your boiler from working.

How to tell if at pipe needs defrosting

Your boiler might make a gurgling noise or show an error code if it has a digital display. There is usually no need to worry, you can easily defrost a frozen condensate pipe yourself.

Steps to defrost a frozen condensate pipe

Step 1

• Firstly, find the condensate pipe - this is usually made of white plastic.
• If it's outside, it will be fixed to a wall emptying into a drainage system or soakaway.
• If it's inside, it will be underneath your boiler.

Step 2

• Thaw the pipe out.
• If outside, poor warm water on the pipe.
• If indoors, wrap the pipe in a hot water bottle.

Step 3

• Reset your boiler.

If the pipe has been fully defrosted, your boiler will start normally.

There are steps that you can take to prevent your pipe freezing again. Get in touch with us to get advice from one of our specialist advisors, contact us here.