How to Prevent Frozen Pipes in Ontario Winters

Frozen pipes can burst and cause catastrophic water damage. Here are essential tips to protect your home during a cold Ontario winter:

• Insulate Exposed Pipes: Pipes in unheated areas like basements, crawl spaces, and garages are most at risk. Use foam pipe sleeves to insulate them.
• Disconnect Outdoor Hoses: Drain and store your garden hoses before the first frost. Close any indoor shut-off valves for outdoor faucets.
• Keep Your Home Warm: Maintain a consistent temperature of at least 16°C, even when you're away. The cost of heating is far less than the cost of a burst pipe repair.
• Let Faucets Drip: During extreme cold snaps, letting a faucet connected to vulnerable pipes drip slowly can prevent freezing by keeping water moving.

If you suspect a pipe is frozen, never use an open flame to thaw it. Call a professional plumber immediately. Oakville Plumbing Pros can safely thaw your pipes and check for any damage.