Preventing Burst Pipes This Winter: Tips for Homeowners

As the winter months settle in and temperatures drop, one of the most common and costly plumbing issues homeowners in British Columbia face is burst pipes. When temperatures dip below freezing, water inside pipes can freeze, expand, and cause pipes to crack or burst, leading to severe water damage, costly repairs, and potential safety hazards. However, with the right precautions, you can protect your home from this winter plumbing nightmare.

Why Do Pipes Burst in Winter?
Water expands when it freezes, and if this occurs inside a pipe, the pressure builds up until the pipe cracks or bursts. Pipes that are exposed to cold air, like those in uninsulated attics, basements, and crawl spaces, are particularly vulnerable. When these pipes freeze, water flow can stop, or worse, the pipe can rupture, resulting in significant water damage once it thaws and starts to leak.

Tips for Preventing Burst Pipes
1. Insulate Your Pipes
One of the most effective ways to prevent frozen pipes is to insulate them. Pipe insulation is relatively inexpensive and easy to install, especially in areas like attics, basements, and garages. Insulated pipes help maintain a steady temperature and prevent the water inside from freezing, even in the coldest temperatures.

2. Open Cabinet Doors
If you have pipes running through cabinets, especially in the kitchen or bathroom, leave the cabinet doors open. This will allow warmer air from the rest of your home to circulate around the pipes, preventing them from freezing.

3. Keep the Heat On
Even if you’re going away for the holidays, keep your home heated to at least 12°C (55°F). This is particularly important in areas like crawl spaces or basements, where pipes can easily freeze without proper warmth.

4. Seal Gaps and Cracks
Inspect the exterior of your home for any gaps, cracks, or openings around pipes, vents, or electrical wires. Seal these areas with caulk or spray foam insulation to prevent cold air from entering and causing pipes to freeze.

5. Install a Heating Cable
For particularly vulnerable areas like exterior walls or outdoor spigots, consider installing a heating cable. These cables can be wrapped around pipes to keep them warm enough to prevent freezing, and they are available in both manual and automatic models for added convenience.

6. Disconnect Outdoor Hoses
Before winter hits, disconnect garden hoses from outdoor spigots and drain the water out. This helps avoid frozen pipes leading to hose bibs, which can cause the pipes inside the house to burst. You can also purchase insulated covers for outdoor spigots for extra protection.

7. Monitor the Temperature
Install a thermometer in areas where pipes are at risk, like your basement, attic, or garage. This way, you can monitor the temperature and take action if it starts to drop below freezing. In some cases, there are freeze alarms available that can alert you when temperatures reach critical levels.

What to Do If a Pipe Freezes
If you suspect a pipe has frozen, it’s crucial to act quickly. Here’s what you can do:

– Turn off the water supply to prevent further damage.
– Use a hairdryer, heat tape, or space heater to gently warm the frozen pipe. Avoid using an open flame, as this could cause a fire hazard.
– Call a professional if you’re unable to locate or access the frozen pipe, or if it has already burst. A professional plumber or restoration expert will be able to safely thaw the pipe and assess the damage.

Why You Need Professional Help
Even with preventive measures, accidents can happen. If your pipes do burst, it’s crucial to act fast to minimize the damage. Restoration experts are equipped with the necessary tools and experience to quickly address water damage and prevent further complications like mold growth or structural damage. Therefore, we offer emergency water damage restoration services to help you recover from burst pipes, with a focus on minimizing disruption to your daily life.

Conclusion
Taking the time to winterize your pipes can save you a lot of hassle and money in the long run. By following these simple steps, you can protect your home and avoid the nightmare of burst pipes during the colder months. If you experience a burst pipe or water damage, remember that our team of experts is here to help.