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With freezing temperatures in the forecast, now is the time to make sure your home’s water pipes are protected from freezing or bursting.
Keep your pipes working this winter with these tips:
- Seal off cold drafts in locations where water supply lines are located
- Open interior doors and cabinets to allow heat from the house to warm unprotected pipes in cold areas
- Keep your thermostat set for at least 15 degrees Celsius
- Winterize outdoor taps
- Regularly run water through your pipes through everyday use – if temperatures become unseasonably cold (reaching -10ºC at night or remaining below zero during the day), consider leaving a bathtub tap running at just a trickle to keep water flowing through the pipes
- If you are going to be away for an extended period, arrange for somebody to check your home periodically
Signs that your pipes are frozen or are starting to freeze:
- No water or very little water coming out of a faucet (check all faucets in your home)
- Frost on internal pipes
- Flooding water – frozen water can cause pipes to burst
How to try to thaw a frozen pipe in your home:
- If pipes are not in a confined space, heat the area with a hair dryer, heating pad, electric heater, hot water bottles or hot towels (it may take minutes to hours to thaw out the pipe – do not use open flames or leave items unattended)
- Contact Public Works if the water is still not flowing at 250.361.0400
If you experience a burst pipe: Turn off the main shut-off valve and call a plumber. If you live in a townhome or condo, call the building owner or manager.