The Fraser Valley’s winters are generally mild compared to much of Canada, but that can lull homeowners into a false sense of security. When temperatures do dip below freezing, even for a few nights, unprotected pipes can freeze, expand, and burst, causing significant water damage and expensive repairs. Here’s how to protect your home before the next cold snap hits.
Identify Your Most Vulnerable Pipes
Pipes in unheated areas are the most at risk. This includes pipes in garages, crawlspaces, along exterior walls, and under sinks on outside-facing walls. Basements and utility rooms that aren’t well insulated are also common trouble spots. Walk through your home and note any exposed pipes in these areas.
Insulate Exposed Pipes
Foam pipe sleeves and fibreglass wraps are inexpensive, widely available at hardware stores, and easy to install. Focus on pipes in crawlspaces, garages, and along exterior walls. For hard-to-reach areas, heat tape or cable can provide an extra layer of protection. This is one of the most effective preventative steps you can take.
Prepare Your Outdoor Plumbing
Disconnect and drain all garden hoses before winter arrives, and store them indoors or in a garage. Shut off the interior valve that supplies your outdoor taps, then open the outdoor faucet to drain any remaining water. Water left sitting in outdoor lines is one of the most common causes of pipe damage during a freeze.
Keep Indoor Temperatures Consistent
During cold snaps, keep your thermostat set to at least 15°C, even when you’re away or sleeping. Opening cabinet doors under kitchen and bathroom sinks allows warmer household air to circulate around the pipes. If temperatures drop sharply overnight, letting a tap drip slowly can relieve pressure in the system and help prevent freezing.
What to Do If a Pipe Freezes
If you turn on a faucet and only a trickle comes out, you may have a frozen pipe. Gently warm the affected area with a hair dryer or space heater. Never use an open flame. Once the water starts flowing again, check for cracks or leaks. If a pipe has already burst, shut off the main water supply immediately and call a plumber.
Taking a few simple precautions now can save you from a stressful and costly repair later. If you’re thinking about your home’s condition or considering a move, the Schreder Brothers team is here with honest advice and local connections to help.
