How to Avoid Frozen Water Pipes

With the frigid Calgary temperatures upon us, there is an issue that many people fear, and that some will go on to experience. We are talking about frozen water pipes, which is a problem that can happen to anyone who lives in a cold climate. When the temperatures drop low, it’s important to take precautions to prevent your water pipes from freezing up.

There are some things you can do to help keep your water pipes from freezing, such as:

• Keep the heat on at least 13 degrees Celsius, especially if you will be leaving on vacation or won’t be using the home. While you are home you will of course want to keep it warmer in the house, but this should be the minimum that the temperature is set at to keep the pipes from freezing up.
• Have the water pipes that are outside and in your attic insulated. This will keep them warmer, which will also help to save on your energy costs, because it will keep the water warmer, too. Also look into insulating the water spigots and outdoor faucets.
• If you have water pipes that go into your garage, be sure to keep the door closed so that it helps the pipes stay warmer.
• Seal any leaks that may be around your water pipes. This goes along with insulating them and ensuring everything is properly prepared for getting through winter.
• When you are not home and the heat is being turned down from your normal temperature, open up the cupboards under all of the sinks. This will allow more warm air to flow under the cabinet to keep the pipes from freezing.

If your water pipes do freeze, you may be able to get some heat going to help them thaw on their own. However, many people are not sure where the water is frozen in the pipe. If this is the case, the best route to take is to call a plumber for assistance.

At Alpha Plumbing, we have assisted many people in the Calgary area in protecting their water pipes from the cold, as well as addressing those that have frozen.