Winter temperatures in Halifax and Dartmouth can plummet well below freezing, putting your home’s plumbing at significant risk. Water inside pipes begins to freeze when temperatures drop to around -6°C (20°F) or lower, but even temperatures just below freezing (0°C or 32°F) can pose a threat, especially over extended periods.
When water freezes, it expands, increasing pressure inside the pipes. This pressure can lead to cracks or even full-blown pipe bursts, which can result in extensive water damage, flooding, and expensive emergency plumbing repairs. In some cases, a single burst pipe can cause thousands of dollars in damage to floors, walls, and electrical systems.
To avoid these costly and stressful situations, follow these essential prevention tips.
Pipes in unheated or poorly insulated areas, such as basements, attics, garages, crawl spaces, and exterior walls, are at the highest risk of freezing. Proper insulation is crucial. Consider the following:
Foam pipe insulation: Easy to install and provides an extra layer of protection.
Heating tape or cable: This provides direct warmth to pipes and is particularly useful in extremely cold conditions.
Wall and attic insulation: Enhancing overall home insulation helps maintain a stable indoor temperature, reducing the likelihood of frozen pipes.
Keeping your home at a consistent temperature can significantly reduce the risk of frozen pipes. Make sure to set your thermostat to at least 12-15°C (55-60°F), even when you're not home, this will help you avoid any sudden temperature drops by keeping heating consistent day and night, and if you’re leaving town for an extended amount of time, consider setting your thermostat even higher and having someone check on your home.
On particularly cold nights, leave a few faucets, especially those connected to pipes in unheated areas, slightly open. Even a small trickle of water helps prevent freezing by relieving pressure and keeping water moving.
Cold air seeping in from cracks or openings in your home can lower temperatures around pipes. To avoid this, use caulking or weather stripping to seal gaps around windows, doors, and foundation openings. Furthermore, check for and repair any cracks or leaks in exterior walls, and close foundation vents during the winter to prevent cold air from circulating around pipes.
Pipes inside kitchen and bathroom cabinets can become much colder than the rest of your home. To allow warm air to circulate around them, open cabinet doors, especially those under sinks along exterior walls. If necessary, use a small space heater near these areas for extra warmth.
Before winter arrives, disconnect and drain outdoor garden hoses, and shut off and drain the water supply to any exterior faucets to prevent residual water from freezing. For extra protection, consider installing frost-proof hose bibs.
If a pipe does freeze and burst, shutting off the water quickly can help minimize damage. Ensure you know where your home’s main water shutoff valve is located, test it periodically to ensure it operates smoothly, and make sure to teach each family member how to shut off the water in case of an emergency.
If you suspect your pipes are frozen, act quickly to prevent bursting and further damage. Turn off the main water supply immediately to reduce pressure inside the pipes, check for visible frost or bulging sections of exposed pipes, and apply gentle heat to the frozen section using:
Never use an open flame such as a propane torch or lighter, as this can damage pipes and create a fire hazard.
If you can’t locate or thaw the frozen section, or if you notice cracks or leaks, call a professional emergency plumber in Halifax immediately.
Despite your best efforts, extreme cold weather can still cause unexpected plumbing issues. If you find yourself dealing with frozen or burst pipes, it’s crucial to get professional help fast. Here at Halifax Plumbing and Heating, we are available for emergency plumbing repairs, ensuring your home stays protected all winter long.
Contact us today to schedule an inspection or emergency service and keep your plumbing system in top shape!
