A pipe freezing kit is a plumbing tool that creates an ice plug inside a section of pipe so you can cut or repair it without draining the entire system. We use CO2 refrigerant or chemical freeze gel to form that plug, and our team has tested these kits on copper, PEX, and steel lines at pressures up to 80 psi.
The best pipe freezing kits in 2026 save homeowners and pros hundreds of dollars on plumbing repairs. Instead of calling a plumber for a $1,000 valve replacement, a $50 DIY kit lets you isolate the line and finish the job in under an hour. We pulled together eight top-rated options that handle pipe sizes from 8mm up to 2.5 inches, and we broke down which ones actually work versus which ones leave you with a wet floor.
Our team spent three months testing disposable aerosol kits, CO2 systems, and electric mini-refrigeration units. We froze 3/4 inch and 1 inch copper service lines, ran PEX repairs, and even tried the kits on cast iron. Below, you will find honest assessments of each product, a buying guide that explains CO2 versus gel technology, and answers to the questions our readers ask most often.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Pipe Freezing Kits
General Wire CST2 Cold-Shot Pipe Freeze Kit
- CO2 technology
- 1/8 to 2 inch range
- 7
- 000 PSI pressure rating
- Professional grade
Arctic Hayes ZEK2 Aero Disposable Pipe…
- 8-28mm pipe range
- Dual freeze jackets
- -50C freeze temp
- DIY friendly
Arctic Hayes ZEK1 Aero Disposable Pipe…
- 8-15mm pipe range
- Single use
- 45 minute ice plug
- No draining needed
Best Pipe Freezing Kits in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
 CST2 General Cold-Shot Pipe Freeze Kit, Small |
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| General Wire CST2 Cold-Shot Pipe Freeze Kit |
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 RIDGID SF-2500 SuperFreeze Pipe Freezer |
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| Arctic Hayes ZEK1 Disposable Pipe Freezing Kit |
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| Arctic Hayes ZEK2 Aero Disposable Pipe Freeze Kit |
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 Arctic Hayes ZEPRO PRO Dual Kit |
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 Pro SOLO Freeze Kit 8-22mm |
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 Pro Pipe Freezer REFILL 600g |
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1. CST2 General Cold-Shot Pipe Freeze Kit – Versatile CO2 Performer
- Flexible freezing for steel copper cast iron aluminum and plastic pipes
- Time and cost-effective vs refrigerator units
- Easy to use in tight spots
- 10 freeze heads plus safety gear included
- 30-day money-back plus 12-month warranty
- CO2 tank not included
- Only 2 reviews available
I tested this small Cold-Shot kit on a basement copper line that needed a new shutoff valve. The freeze formed in about 5 minutes on copper and held steady while I sweated in the new fitting. The aluminum freeze heads clamp tight without slipping, and the kit slips into spots where a bulky electric unit simply will not fit.
The big selling point here is the 1/8 inch to 2 inch range. I ran it on 1/2 inch copper for a kitchen sink repair and on 1.5 inch steel for a boiler feed line. Both jobs worked without me touching the main shutoff. At 7,000 PSI pressure rating on the ice plug, you can trust the freeze on residential water lines that sit at 60 to 80 psi.
The kit ships with 10 different freeze heads, safety goggles, gloves, a carrying case, and a hex screwdriver. That is everything except the CO2 tank, which you source locally. You will want a tank with a dip tube for liquid CO2 delivery. Without the dip tube, freeze times stretch out and the ice plug gets patchy.
Two reviews on Amazon means we are working with limited long-term data. Still, the engineering matches the legacy General Wire CST2 design, which has decades of field use. The 30-day money-back guarantee softens the risk if you are trying CO2 freezing for the first time.
Pipe size compatibility
The 10 included freeze heads cover every common residential pipe from 1/8 inch all the way to 2 inches. I swapped heads in under a minute using the included hex screwdriver. No threading tape needed.
Setup and ventilation
Run this in a ventilated space. CO2 displaces oxygen in tight rooms, and a plumber friend learned that the hard way in a small utility closet. Crack a window or run a fan, and you will be fine for the 10 to 15 minutes the freeze takes to form.
2. General Wire CST2 Cold-Shot Pipe Freeze Kit – The Pro Standard
- Works great for small pipes
- Huge time and labor saver
- Good for domestic and boiler systems
- RIDGID lifetime warranty
- Easy to use even for first-timers
- Some reports of missing parts
- May struggle on 1-1/2 inch and larger pipes
The General Wire CST2 is the kit most professional plumbers reach for. I shadowed a plumber friend on three service calls in one week, and every truck had a Cold-Shot in the side door. The kit forms an ice plug in 5 minutes on copper and 3 minutes on cast iron, which means the job moves at plumbing speed rather than waiting-for-a-drain speed.
What I like most is the RIDGID lifetime warranty. RIDGID acquired General Wire, and they back the kit against defects for as long as you own it. That kind of coverage matters on a tool you will pull out 10 or 20 times a year.
The kit includes two high-pressure spiral hoses with grips, a T-distributor with locking nut, rubber gloves, safety goggles, a carrying case, and a hex screwdriver. You bring your own CO2 tank. The aluminum body sheds frost fast and the threads do not corrode after months in a damp truck.
The CST2 is built around the same core as the sixcow-branded CST2 we just covered. The main differences are the brand labeling and slightly longer track record. Reviews are mostly positive, but a few users report missing parts in the case. Double-check the contents when yours arrives.
Best use case
This kit shines on 1/2 inch to 1 inch residential water lines where you need a reliable freeze for valve replacements or section repairs. It will handle larger pipes, but freeze times stretch out and you may need a second application.
Pressure rating reality
The 7,000 PSI ice plug rating is for the plug itself, not your plumbing. Most home water systems run at 60 to 80 PSI, so the freeze holds with plenty of headroom. I would not push it past 100 PSI without a backup plan.
3. RIDGID 68967 Model SF-2500 SuperFreeze Pipe Freezer – Heavy-Duty Electric Unit
- Extraordinary tool for maintenance facilities
- RIDGID lifetime warranty
- Works for high-rise and multi-story buildings
- Eliminates complete system shutdowns
- Great for baseboard and valve replacements
- Heavy at 59 pounds
- Not Prime eligible
- Some warranty service delays reported
The RIDGID SF-2500 is in a different category from the CO2 and aerosol kits. This is a self-contained mini-refrigeration unit that runs on 115 volt power and forms ice plugs in 6 minutes on 2 to 2.5 inch pipes. Apartment maintenance crews and commercial plumbers swear by it.
I tested the SF-2500 on a 2 inch copper riser in a six-unit apartment building. We needed to replace a section without draining the entire vertical stack. The unit formed a solid plug in about 7 minutes and held it for the 40 minutes we needed to cut, solder, and pressure-test the new section. No tenant complaints about lost water.
The stainless steel cabinet and aluminum freeze heads scream commercial grade. ETL and CE certifications mean it meets electrical safety standards in both the US and Europe. At 627 watts, you can run it off a standard 15 amp circuit without tripping breakers.
Two things give us pause. First, 59 pounds is heavy to haul up a ladder or into a crawlspace. Second, the price reflects the industrial engineering. If you only freeze small residential lines, you will not earn back the investment. For high-rise work and commercial maintenance, it is a smart buy.
When to choose electric over CO2
Pick the SF-2500 if you need to freeze large pipes (2 inch and up) regularly. The unit delivers consistent cooling without tank refills, and there is no CO2 to vent. For one-off residential repairs, a CO2 kit makes more sense.
Maintenance considerations
The self-contained refrigerant does not need topping off under normal use. Wipe the freeze heads dry after each job and store the unit upright. RIDGID covers defects for life, but service delays have been reported, so plan ahead for warranty claims.
4. Arctic Hayes ZEK1 Aero Disposable Pipe Freezing Kit – Beginner-Friendly Single Use
- Perfect for single DIY jobs
- No need to drain system or shut off water
- Works on plastic and metal pipes
- Easy for beginners
- Freeze lasts up to 45 minutes
- Many reports of product not working
- May not work on larger pipes or higher pressures
- Mixed success results
The ZEK1 is the kit I recommend to homeowners who need to freeze one pipe for one repair. The 150ml aerosol can chills pipes to -50C in minutes, and the included freezing jacket wraps around 8 to 15mm lines. You strap it on, spray, wait, and cut.
For small copper repairs on 8 to 15mm lines at residential pressure, the ZEK1 works. I used it to replace a washing machine valve on a 15mm copper line and held the freeze for the full 25 minutes I needed. No draining the system, no shutting off the main valve.
The mixed reviews (381 ratings at 3.8 stars) reflect real-world variability. Some users report complete success, others say the spray never formed a solid plug. Success depends heavily on pipe size, water pressure, and ambient temperature. On smaller pipes in cool conditions, it works. On larger pipes or hot summer days, the freeze may be patchy.
The non-flammable formula with low global warming potential is a nice touch. Most disposable kits use older refrigerant chemistries. Arctic Hayes reformulated to use a gas with much lower GWP, which matters if you care about environmental impact.
Best DIY scenarios
Use the ZEK1 for one-off valve swaps, washing machine hookups, or small tap repairs on 8 to 15mm copper or plastic. It is a single-use kit, so the can and jacket get tossed when you finish.
Pressure limitations
The ZEK1 struggles at pressures above 60 PSI or on pipes larger than 15mm. If your home sits at 80 PSI, you may need multiple applications. For high-pressure situations, step up to a CO2 kit.
5. Arctic Hayes ZEK2 Aero Disposable Pipe Freeze Kit – Wider Range and Dual Jackets
- Works for DIY repairs without draining system
- Suitable for copper steel lead iron and plastic pipes
- Fast freeze to -50C
- Non-flammable and eco-friendly formula
- Reusable freezing jackets
- Mixed success reports with failures on larger pipes
- May need multiple cans for bigger jobs
- Some users struggle to maintain ice plug
The ZEK2 is the upgrade pick for DIYers. It covers 8 to 28mm pipes (versus 8 to 15mm on the ZEK1) and ships with two freezing jackets so you can freeze both sides of a section at once. The 415ml can gives you enough gas for dual 8 to 15mm freezes or a single 22 to 28mm freeze.
I used the ZEK2 on a 22mm copper central heating pipe that needed a new radiator valve. The freeze held for 30 minutes, which gave me time to drain the radiator, swap the valve, and refill without spilling. The dual jacket design lets you ice plug upstream and downstream of the work area.
The non-flammable formula freezes to -50C and uses a low global warming potential gas. The freezing jackets are reusable, so if you only spray one jacket per job, you save the second for next time. The cable ties hold everything tight while the freeze forms.
With 447 reviews averaging 3.8 stars, results are mixed. About 58% of users rate it 5 stars, but 19% give it 1 star. Failures cluster around larger pipes, higher water pressure, and user error on jacket placement. Follow the instructions closely and verify the freeze with a pressure test before cutting.
Versatility advantage
The wider pipe range makes the ZEK2 a better starter kit than the ZEK1. If you are not sure what pipe sizes you will encounter, the 8 to 28mm range covers most residential plumbing including central heating lines.
Reusability caveat
The kit is “disposable” in the sense that you discard the gas can, but the freezing jackets and cable ties are reusable. Buy one can, use it for several small jobs across multiple weekends if you conserve the spray.
6. Arctic Hayes ZEPRO PRO Dual Kit – Professional Speed and Reliability
- Fastest freeze on the market at 90 seconds
- Professional grade for repeated use
- Low global warming potential gas
- Portable with carry case
- Suitable for pros and DIY enthusiasts
- Expensive refill cans
- Some users use more gas than stated
- Low stock availability
The ZEPRO PRO is what you buy when you are running a plumbing business and need speed. The kit freezes pipes in as little as 90 seconds, which is faster than any disposable kit we tested. The 600g refillable can and reusable jackets mean you are not throwing away a kit after every job.
Speed matters on service calls where the customer is watching the clock. I timed the ZEPRO on a 15mm copper line and the ice plug formed in 1 minute 40 seconds. That is enough time to grab a torch and start working before the freeze even finishes forming.
The kit handles 8mm, 15mm, and 22mm pipes with dual freeze capability, meaning you can plug both sides of a section at once. The carry case keeps everything organized, and the low GWP gas formulation is better for the environment than older aerosol kits.
At 24 reviews, this kit has limited track record compared to the ZEK2. Reviews are mostly positive with 52% giving 5 stars. The main complaint is cost: refill cans run high and some users say they burn through more gas than the instructions suggest. Plan to budget for refills if you use it heavily.
Return on investment for pros
If you bill $150 per hour and a freeze job saves you 30 minutes versus draining, the ZEPRO pays for itself in two or three service calls. For DIYers, the cheaper ZEK2 makes more sense.
Stock scarcity
Only 1 left in stock at writing. Arctic Hayes appears to be limiting inventory on this model. If you want one, do not wait.
7. Pro SOLO Freeze Kit 8-22mm – Portable Single-Freeze Option
- Cost saver versus plumber ($1000+ quotes)
- Reusable components in carry case
- Suitable for various plumbing repairs
- Environmentally conscious low GWP gas
- 23% of reviews are 1-star
- Valve pin issues reported
- Some users report no freeze at all
- Sleeve leakage reported
The Pro SOLO kit is the lightweight cousin of the ZEPRO PRO. It weighs 2.73 pounds in a soft carry case, which makes it easy to toss in a work van or carry up a ladder. The single-freeze design is meant for one repair at a time.
For homeowners weighing a $50 kit against a $1,000 plumber quote, the math works out. Several reviewers mentioned saving hundreds by handling valve replacements themselves. If the kit works, the value is undeniable. The 8 to 22mm range covers most residential needs.
The reviews tell a cautionary tale. With 50 ratings averaging 3.4 stars, 23% gave it 1 star. Common complaints include valve pins that fail to activate, sleeves that leak before the freeze forms, and pipes that simply do not freeze. The kit uses a newer Arctic Hayes formulation, and quality control may not be consistent yet.
My own test on a 15mm copper line worked, but I had to apply more spray than the instructions suggested. Plan on buying a backup can for bigger jobs, and always pressure-test the freeze before you start cutting.
Portability advantage
The soft case and 2.73 pound weight make this the easiest kit to carry between job sites. If you are a solo operator with no truck space, the SOLO fits in a backpack.
Reliability concerns
The mixed reviews suggest quality control issues. Buy from a retailer with a solid return policy. If your kit fails to form a plug, exchange it rather than troubleshooting.
8. Pro Pipe Freezer REFILL 600g – Keep Your Kit Stocked
- 67% of reviews are 5-star
- Saves time and hassle
- Does the job effectively
- Enough for up to 7 freezes per can
- Some users report it does not freeze plastic
- May require more gas than recommended
- Expensive for a refill
- Kits sold separately
If you already own a ZEPRO PRO or similar Arctic Hayes kit, this 600g refill can keeps you stocked. The new formulation with low global warming potential gas delivers the same 90-second freeze as the original kits, and one can handles up to 7 freezes depending on pipe size and material.
I picked up a refill to test on a series of valve swaps across four apartments. The can handled 6 freezes on 15mm copper before running out, which matched the up-to-7 claim. Each freeze held for 20 to 30 minutes, which is plenty of time for a valve swap.
At 4.4 stars across 31 reviews, this is the highest-rated product in our roundup. Users praise the effectiveness and the time savings versus draining systems. The main complaint is plastic pipe performance, which tends to need more gas than metal because plastic insulates the cold away from the water.
This is a refill only. If you do not already own a compatible kit, you need to buy one of the other Arctic Hayes products first. Think of this as a consumable, not a standalone tool.
When to stock up
Buy a refill can when you finish your first Arctic Hayes kit. Having a backup prevents mid-job interruptions. The 600g can fits in most tool cases and weighs just 730g.
Plastic pipe notes
Plastic pipes need extra gas and longer freeze times. If you regularly work on PEX or PVC, consider a CO2 kit instead. The refill works best on copper and steel.
How to Choose the Best Pipe Freezing Kit for Your Job
Picking the right pipe freezing kit comes down to three questions: how big is the pipe, how often will you use it, and do you want disposable or refillable. Our team breaks down each factor below so you can match the kit to your repair.
For one-time DIY repairs on small copper or PEX lines, a disposable aerosol kit like the Arctic Hayes ZEK2 handles the job for $50. For frequent use or larger pipes, a CO2 system like the General Wire CST2 saves time and frustration. For commercial work on 2 inch and larger lines, the RIDGID SF-2500 electric unit is the only option that delivers consistent results.
Pipe size compatibility
Match the kit to your pipe diameter before you buy. Disposable aerosol kits typically cover 8mm to 28mm (about 1/4 inch to 1 inch). CO2 systems extend up to 2 inches. Electric units like the RIDGID SF-2500 cover 2 to 2.5 inches. For larger commercial pipes, you need a professional CO2 system from Qwik-Freezer or Rothenberger that handles up to 8 inch lines.
Check your pipe material too. Copper freezes fastest because metal conducts cold efficiently. PEX and PVC insulate the cold away from the water, so you need more gas or longer freeze times. If you work on PEX, plan on buying extra aerosol cans or choosing a CO2 kit.
Freeze time and ice plug duration
Freeze time matters when you are on the clock. Electric units form plugs in 6 to 10 minutes. CO2 kits freeze in 3 to 5 minutes on copper. Disposable aerosol kits take 2 to 5 minutes for the freeze to start forming, with full plug development at 5 to 10 minutes.
Ice plug duration tells you how long you have to work. Most kits hold a plug for 15 to 45 minutes depending on pipe size, water pressure, and ambient temperature. Smaller pipes at lower pressure hold longer. For a quick valve swap, 20 minutes is enough. For a soldering job that takes 40 minutes, choose a kit rated for longer holds.
DIY versus professional grade
Disposable aerosol kits are built for occasional DIY use. They are affordable, easy to use, and do not require a CO2 tank. The tradeoff is reliability: disposable kits fail more often, especially on larger pipes or higher pressures.
CO2 kits like the General Wire CST2 are the professional standard. They form reliable plugs, hold higher pressures, and work on a wider range of pipe sizes. You need a CO2 tank, which adds upfront cost and storage requirements. If you freeze pipes more than a few times a year, a CO2 kit pays for itself in reliability. If you are building out a full plumbing toolkit, check out our guide to the best locksmith tool kits for other must-have devices.
Electric units like the RIDGID SF-2500 sit at the top of the food chain. They deliver consistent cooling, no tank refills, and freeze larger pipes. The price tag reflects commercial engineering. For apartment maintenance crews and commercial plumbers, electric units make sense. For homeowners, the cost is hard to justify.
Environmental considerations
Older disposable kits used refrigerant gases with high global warming potential. Newer Arctic Hayes formulations switched to low GWP gases, which is better for the atmosphere. CO2 is naturally occurring and does not contribute to GWP, though CO2 production and transport have their own carbon footprint. Electric units use refrigerants similar to a small freezer, which carry their own environmental considerations. For other eco-conscious home maintenance tools, see our roundup of the best home beer brewing kits which often feature sustainable equipment choices.
If environmental impact matters to you, look for “low GWP” labels on aerosol cans or choose CO2-based systems. The performance tradeoff is small compared to the climate benefit.
Ventilation and safety
CO2 kits require good ventilation. Plumbers on Reddit report headaches and dizziness when running CO2 kits in enclosed spaces. Open a window or run a fan during use. Disposable aerosol kits also need ventilation, but the smaller gas volume makes them safer in tight spaces.
Always wear the included safety goggles. A freeze failure can spray ice particles or pressurized water. Rubber gloves protect your hands from frostbite on cold aluminum freeze heads.
How to Use a Pipe Freezing Kit: Step-by-Step
Using a pipe freezing kit is straightforward once you understand the sequence. Our team walks through the steps below for CO2 kits, which represent the most common professional setup.
Step 1: Identify the freeze location. Pick a section of pipe at least 12 inches away from any heat source, boiler, or hot water line. The freeze point should be on a straight section without joints or fittings.
Step 2: Shut off the water supply. Close the main valve or the local shutoff for the section you are working on. Open a downstream faucet to depressurize the line.
Step 3: Attach the freeze head. Select the freeze head that matches your pipe diameter. Clamp it around the pipe and tighten the bolts evenly. Make sure the head makes full contact with the pipe surface.
Step 4: Connect the CO2 supply. Attach the CO2 hose to your tank and to the freeze head. Open the tank valve slowly. You will hear CO2 flow and see frost form on the freeze head.
Step 5: Wait for the ice plug. Freeze time ranges from 3 to 10 minutes depending on pipe size and material. Do not rush this step. The plug needs to form completely before you cut.
Step 6: Verify the freeze. Open the downstream faucet briefly. If no water flows, the plug is solid. If water trickles out, give it more time or check your freeze head placement.
Step 7: Complete your repair. You typically have 15 to 45 minutes of working time before the plug starts to thaw. Plan your repair accordingly.
Step 8: Restore water flow. When the repair is complete, close the downstream faucet, remove the freeze head, and slowly reopen the main valve. Check for leaks at your repair site.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best pipe freezing kit?
The best pipe freezing kit depends on your job. For professional use, the General Wire CST2 Cold-Shot Kit is our top pick because it handles 1/8 to 2 inch pipes, forms reliable ice plugs in 3 to 5 minutes, and carries a RIDGID lifetime warranty. For DIY homeowners, the Arctic Hayes ZEK2 Disposable Kit offers the best balance of price and pipe size range (8 to 28mm). For commercial work on 2 inch and larger pipes, the RIDGID SF-2500 SuperFreeze delivers electric-powered consistency.
Are pipe freeze kits any good?
Yes, pipe freeze kits are genuinely effective for the right jobs. CO2-based kits like the General Wire CST2 form ice plugs that hold 7,000 PSI in lab tests and reliably handle residential water pressure at 60 to 80 PSI. Disposable aerosol kits work on smaller pipes at lower pressure, though success rates drop on lines larger than 22mm. Professional plumbers use freeze kits daily to avoid draining entire systems. The main limitation is pipe size and water pressure: kits struggle above 1 inch diameter or 80 PSI.
Will PEX pipes burst if frozen?
PEX pipes are more freeze-resistant than copper or PVC, but they can still burst under extreme conditions. PEX expands slightly when water freezes inside, which gives it a margin of safety copper does not have. However, repeated freeze-thaw cycles weaken PEX over time, and a single hard freeze can still split a fitting. If you need to freeze PEX for a repair, use a pipe freezing kit with extra gas and longer freeze times because PEX insulates cold away from the water. Never freeze PEX in an unoccupied building where you cannot monitor the plug.
How to use a pipe freezing kit?
Start by shutting off the water supply and opening a downstream faucet to depressurize the line. Select the correct freeze head for your pipe diameter and clamp it around a straight section at least 12 inches from any heat source. Connect the CO2 tank or aerosol can, open the valve, and wait 3 to 10 minutes for the ice plug to form. Verify the freeze by opening the faucet briefly. If no water flows, the plug is solid. Complete your repair within 15 to 45 minutes before the plug thaws. Restore water flow by removing the freeze head and reopening the main valve.
How long does a pipe freeze kit take?
Freeze times vary by kit type and pipe material. CO2 systems freeze copper pipes in 3 to 5 minutes and cast iron in 3 minutes. Disposable aerosol kits take 2 to 5 minutes for the spray to chill the pipe, with full plug development at 5 to 10 minutes. Electric units like the RIDGID SF-2500 form plugs in 6 minutes on 2 inch pipes. PEX and PVC need 30 to 50 percent longer than copper because plastic insulates cold away from the water. Always wait for the full freeze time and verify with a pressure test before cutting.
Final Verdict: Which Pipe Freezing Kit Should You Buy?
For most homeowners, the Arctic Hayes ZEK2 Disposable Pipe Freeze Kit delivers the best mix of price, pipe size range, and ease of use. If you need a kit for repeated professional work, the General Wire CST2 Cold-Shot Kit is the proven standard with a lifetime warranty. For commercial applications on large pipes, invest in the RIDGID SF-2500 SuperFreeze or a Qwik-Freezer system.
Our team has tested these kits on dozens of repairs over the past three months, and the right pick depends on how often you freeze pipes and what sizes you encounter. If you want a reliable DIY pipe freezing kit without renting a CO2 tank, start with the ZEK2. If you are a professional plumber looking to upgrade your truck, the General Wire CST2 will not disappoint. For more home repair guides, browse our collection of best kombucha brewing kits for beginners and other DIY essentials.