FROZEN WATER PIPES:
The recent extreme cold temperatures in the Niagara Region have created a substantial risk for frozen or burst pipes. As the temperatures drop, the water in your pipes start turning to ice.
Pipes that freeze most frequently are those that are exposed to the cold, such as outdoor hose bibs, swimming pool supply lines, water sprinkler lines and water supply pipes in unheated interior areas like attics and crawl spaces, garages, or cabinets on exterior walls. Pipes that run against exterior walls that have insufficient or no insulation are also subject to freezing. Frozen water pipes can result in significant to extreme water damage.
Below are some tips to help prevent frozen and burst water pipes:
*Check in the basement, crawl space, attic, garage, and under kitchen and bathroom cabinets where water supply lines are located in unheated areas and insulate both hot and cold water pipes in these areas to help prevent freezing.
*Monitor freezing pipe conditions and allow a faucet to drip slightly. Moving water (even a drip) will help prevent pipes from freezing.
*In extremely cold weather, open kitchen and bathroom cabinet doors to allow warmer air to circulate around the plumbing. Be sure to move any harmful cleaners and household chemicals out of the reach of children.
*If you plan to be away from home for an extended period of time during cold weather, leave the heat on in your home, set to a temperature no lower than 12° C or 54° F and shut off the Main Valve to the home. Leave all taps “open.” Arrange for a family member, friend or neighbour to walk through your home every couple of days – just to help monitor against unforeseen events.
If you have any questions or would like one of our plumbing professionals to come to your home, please call Canada's Pro Plumbing at 905-935-0100.