Ontario’s cold winters can be harsh on homes, especially when it comes to plumbing. One of the most common problems during the colder months is frozen pipes, which can lead to significant damage if not addressed promptly. Frozen water inside pipes can expand, leading to cracks, bursts, and costly repairs. Knowing how to prevent pipes from freezing and understanding what to do if it happens is crucial for every homeowner, especially during Ontario’s frigid winters.
In this blog, we will discuss practical steps you can take to prevent frozen pipes, what to do if your pipes freeze, and how to handle a burst pipe situation. Preventing frozen pipes can save you time, stress, and money in the long run.
How Do Pipes Freeze?
What Causes Pipes to Freeze?
Pipes freeze when the temperature falls to 0°C (32°F) or lower. The water inside starts to freeze and expand, putting pressure on the pipe. This pressure can eventually cause the pipe to crack or burst. Pipes in unheated areas like basements, crawl spaces, attics, or along outside walls are especially at risk.
Common Areas Where Pipes Freeze
In Ontario, exterior pipes and those located in unheated areas of the home are most at risk. Pipes that run along outside walls, under floors, or through garages are common problem spots. If your home has older plumbing, the pipes may lack proper insulation, making them more susceptible to freezing.
Steps to Prevent Frozen Pipes
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1. Insulate Your Pipes
A great way to stop pipes from freezing is to cover them with insulation. Pipe insulation is inexpensive and can be found at most hardware stores. Focus on pipes in unheated areas, such as basements, attics, or crawl spaces. Make sure to wrap any exposed pipes, particularly those near exterior walls or windows, to keep them warm and protected from cold drafts. It’s also important to contact plumbers in New Tecumseth to assist you on how to prevent frozen pipes.
2. Keep a Consistent Temperature
In the winter, it’s important to maintain a steady temperature in your home, even when you’re not there. Avoid setting the thermostat too low overnight, and if you’ll be away for a while, keep it at a minimum of 12°C (54°F). This helps keep warm air moving through your home, which can prevent your pipes from freezing.
3. Allow Faucets to Drip
When the temperature outside drops significantly, allowing your faucets to drip slightly can help prevent freezing. Running water doesn’t freeze as easily as still water, so even a small trickle can make a difference. This is particularly useful for faucets connected to pipes that run through unheated or exterior areas of your home. Best as well to check on drains by getting drain repair in New Tecumseth.
4. Seal Any Gaps and Cracks
Cold air can get into your home through gaps around windows, doors, or where pipes come in. Sealing these areas with caulk or weatherstripping can stop cold air from getting to your pipes. This is especially important in basements and crawl spaces where pipes are more exposed to the outside weather.
5. Open Cabinet Doors
If you have pipes running under sinks or behind cabinets, opening the doors can allow warm air from your home to circulate around them. This can be especially helpful in kitchens and bathrooms, where pipes are more likely to be near exterior walls.
What to Do If Your Pipes Freeze
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1. Identify Frozen Pipes
The first sign of a frozen pipe is usually reduced or no water flow from a faucet. If you suspect a pipe has frozen, check the areas of your home where pipes are most vulnerable, such as basements, attics, and crawl spaces. You may also notice frost on the exterior of the pipe.
2. Turn Off the Water Supply
If you identify a frozen pipe, immediately turn off the water supply to prevent further damage. Locate your main water shutoff valve and close it to stop water from flowing into the frozen pipe, which could lead to a burst.
3. Thaw the Frozen Pipe
To thaw a frozen pipe, you can use several methods. Applying gentle heat to the pipe can gradually melt the ice inside. You can use a hair dryer, a heating pad, or a space heater (placed safely) to warm the pipe. Never use an open flame, as this can damage the pipe or cause a fire. Start thawing the pipe closest to the faucet and work your way back.
If you’re uncomfortable with this process or the frozen pipe is not easily accessible, it’s always a good idea to call a professional plumber to handle the situation.
4. Check for Leaks
Once the pipe has thawed, turn the water back on slowly and check for any leaks. A frozen pipe may have cracked or burst due to the pressure from expanding ice. If you notice any leaks, it’s important to get them repaired immediately to prevent water damage to your home.
Dealing with a Burst Pipe
If a pipe freezes and bursts, act fast to reduce water damage. Turn off the main water supply right away and call a plumber. Burst pipes can flood your home quickly, so it’s important to act fast. While waiting for help, clean up any water on the floor and move valuable items to a safe spot.
In Ontario, the cold winters increase the risk of burst pipes, especially in older homes or those with poor insulation. To avoid expensive repairs and stress, make sure your pipes are well-insulated and regularly maintained.
Preventing frozen pipes not only protects your plumbing but also keeps your home’s structure safe. A frozen or burst pipe can cause serious water damage, leading to costly repairs and a lot of frustration. Simple steps like insulating your pipes, keeping a steady temperature, and sealing any gaps can help prevent this common winter issue.
If your pipes freeze, act quickly to minimize damage. Contact Plumbing Authority Inc. at 647-992-7473 or email us at plumbingauthoritygta@gmail.com for expert assistance. Our team is available 24/7 to handle any plumbing emergency, ensuring your home stays safe and comfortable all winter long.
