Frozen Pipes? Following these tips could prevent a watery mess this winter:

Posted On Tuesday January 07, 2020

Unfortunately, a deep freeze could cause frozen pipes.

January and February typically means frigid temperatures for Middlesex County, Ontario and surrounding areas. With this in mind, it is a good time to make sure you have taken steps to minimize the possibility of frozen pipes in your home.

As noted on the City of London’s website:

Water entering London’s distribution system comes from Lake Erie and Lake Huron. With a surface water source comes fluctuating water temperatures due to seasonal changes. London’s drinking water temperature fluctuates between 1 to 22 degrees Celsius, with the coldest water temperatures being experienced in February…During February, with the water temperature so close to the freezing mark, it takes very little exposure to sub-zero temperatures for it to freeze. That is why it is important to make sure your household pipes are not exposed to colder air during winter months.

 

When water in a pipe freezes it expands, putting pressure on both metal and plastic pipes and if a water pipe breaks inside a home, it can be devastating. A frozen pipe bursting on your second floor will see water working its way down to the lowest part of your home with the potential for significant damage.

Generally, water pipes are safe from freezing, however, pipes located next to exterior walls, and pipes running through areas of your home not heated, such as a crawl space, are susceptible. Pipes could also freeze if the heating system fails.

Follow these simple tips to protect your water pipes from freezing:

Going away? Drain your pipes

  • Shut off and drain pipes leading to outside faucets
  • Keep in mind, if you are away from your home for more than four consecutive days, most insurance policies do not cover water escape damage caused by freezing unless:
    • You arranged for someone to come into your home daily to make sure your heating system is on and working, or
    • You shut off the water supply and drained all the pipes and appliances of water
    • When it is very cold outside, if you are not able to drain your pipes, leave the cold water tap dripping to help keep pipes from freezing

Wrap your pipes

  • Prevent bursting of exposed pipes most susceptible to freezing by wrapping them in foam insulation sleeves
  • Be aware, even outdoor exposed pipes that run into your house may causing leakage into your home if they burst

Open cabinet doors

  • On very cold days, open your cabinet doors in your kitchen, bathroom and laundry to allow warmer air to circulate around the plumbing. Especially if piping is located next to exterior walls. Remember to move household cleaners out of reach of children and pets while doors are open

Seal air leaks

  • Check for and seal any air leaks in your home and garage, especially if pipes are nearby

Doors closed

  • If there are water supply lines in your garage, it is a good idea to keep the door closed when not in use

Temperature is set

  • Leave the thermostat at the same temperature throughout both the day and night. Your heating bill may be higher, but the inconvenience to you and the cost to repair damage caused by a burst pipe is much higher still.
  • While away from your home be sure to leave the thermostat set no lower than 13C /55F

Winter sports, outdoor activities…there are many fun things to do outside in the colder months but when temperatures dip well below freezing, let’s make sure you come home to a place that is warm and dry so you can enjoy your time inside when frigid weather hits and you want to be indoors.

Our agents are always available to answer any questions you may have. Please feel free to contact them any time.