Canadian winters can be harsh and very cold at times. Your plumbing also feels this extreme weather and below are some steps that you can take to avoid any costly plumbing issues. Drainpro is Ottawa’s leading plumbing service provider and we are always ready to help if your pipes do freeze. We also service Kanata, Orleans, Nepean and many other regions within Ottawa and surrounding areas.
Love The Heat – Keep It Warm
Are you planning a vacation during the winter and your home will sit empty for a few weeks or months? If you are planning a vacation, remember to leave your heat on while you’re away. Nothing would ruin a great vacation like coming home to frozen pipes. Avoid thousands of dollars of damage and repairs and leave your heat on before going on vacation. If you’re not vacationing, you still will need heat to keep your pipes warm and cozy.
Afraid of pipes freezing? Let it drip!
The water pressure that is building in your pipes is actually the reason why vulnerable pipes may burst or freeze. If you are aware of a vulnerable faucet that you are scared may freeze, open the tap slightly and the faucet will drip and relieve the pressure build up in your pipes. Another tip could be to simply leave interior doors open to help spread the heat to the vulnerable areas.
Finding and sealing cracks and holes
Do you feel a slight draft or cold air coming in through a crack that it shouldn’t be coming from? Finding and sealing any cracks or holes that directly allow cold air from the outside is essential. This air flow will create a cabinet compartment system that is usually colder than the air coming in. Using caulk or spray foam insulation is the recommended solution to seal holes and cracks.
Insulating to avoid freezing
Many older homes do not have the proper insulation when it comes to the plumbing. Frozen pipes are a costly problem which can be avoided by fitting problematic pipes with rubber or fiberglass sleeves to help diminish the potential of freezing. Insulation itself will not heat the pipe but instead will keep the water temperature inside the pipes stable.
Contact Drainpro today if you’re concerned or worried about some of your pipes that might freeze. Drainpro offers plumbing services in Ottawa, Kanata, Orleans and surrounding areas. You can count on us to the job right the first time.