When temperatures drop below −30°C, pipes along outside walls, in crawl spaces and in unheated garages are at real risk of freezing. A frozen pipe can split, and when it thaws, water pours out.
Before the Cold Hits
- Disconnect garden hoses and shut off and drain outdoor taps in the fall.
- Insulate pipes in crawl spaces, garages and along outside walls.
- Seal drafts near pipes, such as gaps around dryer vents and rim joists.
- Keep the heat at 15°C or higher when you are away, and have someone check the house if you are gone for more than a few days.
During a Cold Snap
- Open cabinet doors under sinks on outside walls so warm air can reach the pipes.
- Let a tap on an outside wall drip slightly overnight.
- Keep the garage door closed if there are water lines in the garage.
If a Pipe Freezes
- If a tap has little or no flow, a pipe may be frozen. Leave the tap open.
- Warm the pipe gently with a hair dryer or space heater. Never use an open flame.
- If you cannot reach the frozen section, call a plumber.
If a Pipe Bursts
- Shut off the main water valve right away. Make sure everyone in the house knows where it is.
- Turn off power to wet areas if it is safe to do so.
- Call a plumber to repair the pipe, then call us to dry the structure properly.
Learn more about our burst and frozen pipe service.
Need help now? Call Fire & Flood YXE at 306-249-4104 any time, or send us a message with photos.