Although the full-scale cold wave has not yet begun, frozen water pipes can burst all at once during the night when temperatures drop suddenly. When water freezes, it expands and puts pressure on the pipes; once they burst, the thawing water pours into the house, significantly increasing repair costs. We have compiled a list of preventative measures you can take in advance within October.
1. Insulate the exposed pipes first.
Pipes running through basements, garages, crawl spaces, and exterior walls are most prone to freezing first. Simply installing foam (sponge) insulation sleeves or wrapping them with insulation tape can help in these areas. Please also seal any gaps between walls and floors where cold air is entering.
2. Maintain a constant indoor temperature.
It is safe not to turn off the heating completely, even when going out or traveling. Various Ontario plumbing guides recommend maintaining indoor temperatures at least around 15°C. For cabinets with pipes on cold exterior walls, such as under the sink, please leave the doors slightly open to allow warm indoor air to enter. If there are water pipes in the garage, it is also best to keep the garage door closed.
3. On very cold nights, drop cold water little by little.
On nights when temperatures drop below -15°C, letting a thin stream of cold water flow from faucets connected to exposed pipes reduces the risk of freezing. Running water does not freeze as easily as stagnant water and also helps lower the pressure inside the pipes. The cost of repairing a burst pipe is much greater than the burden of water bills.
4. Please clean up the outdoor water taps now.
Disconnect the garden hose, drain the water, and store it. For the outdoor faucet, close the indoor shut-off valve and open the outer tap to drain any remaining water. If you delay this step, the outer pipe often bursts first during the first cold snap of early winter.
If it is already frozen — do not use fire.
If you turn on the faucet and no water comes out, first locate the main water valve. It is safe to slowly thaw frozen parts using a hairdryer or a warm towel, and it is best to avoid using direct heat sources like torches due to the risk of fire. If the pipe has already burst or is difficult to locate, turn off the main valve and contact a plumber. It is recommended that everyone in the family knows where the main valve is located before pipes freeze.
Source: Guest Plumbing — How to Prevent Frozen Pipes During Winters in Ontario · New Canadian Drain — How to Prevent Frozen Pipes During Winters in Ontario
https://guestplumbing.com/how-to-prevent-frozen-pipes-and-what-to-do-if-they-freeze-anyway/
https://newcanadiandrain.com/how-to-prevent-frozen-pipes-during-winters-in-ontario/
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