How to Prevent Frozen Pipes in Edmonton Winters

Frozen pipes are a common winter plumbing problem in Edmonton. When water freezes inside a pipe, it expands and creates pressure that can crack or burst the line. The resulting leak can cause significant water damage, especially if the problem is not discovered right away.

A few preventative steps can reduce the risk considerably during periods of extreme cold.

Which Pipes Are Most at Risk?

Pipes in unheated or poorly insulated areas are usually the most vulnerable.

This can include plumbing in basements, crawl spaces, garages, exterior walls and utility rooms. Outdoor hose connections can also freeze if they are not shut off and drained before winter.

Homes with plumbing close to foundation walls or other cold surfaces may require additional insulation or protection.

Insulate Vulnerable Plumbing

Foam pipe insulation or other approved insulation products can help protect exposed water lines from freezing temperatures.

Pay particular attention to pipes in colder areas of the home, especially where plumbing runs near exterior walls or through spaces that do not receive consistent heat.

Insulation does not make a pipe completely freeze proof, but it can slow heat loss and reduce risk during cold weather.

Shut Off and Drain Outdoor Water Lines

Exterior faucets and hose connections should be prepared before temperatures drop.

Disconnect garden hoses, shut off the interior valve supplying the outdoor faucet if one is available and drain the remaining water from the line.

Water trapped inside an exterior line can freeze, expand and damage the pipe.

Keep Warm Air Circulating

During extreme cold, open cabinet doors beneath sinks located along exterior walls so warm indoor air can reach the plumbing.

Make sure areas containing water lines remain adequately heated, including basements and utility spaces.

If a property will be vacant during winter, maintaining indoor heat is especially important.

Know the Signs of a Frozen Pipe

Reduced water flow, no water from a fixture or visible frost on exposed plumbing can indicate a frozen line.

If you suspect a pipe is frozen, shut off the water supply if necessary and apply gentle heat to accessible sections using warm towels, a heating pad or a hair dryer.

Never use an open flame to thaw plumbing.

What to Do if a Pipe Bursts

If a frozen pipe cracks or bursts, shut off the main water supply immediately.

Limit water damage where it is safe to do so and contact an emergency plumber.

Go2 Plumbing & Heating provides frozen pipe repair and 24/7 emergency plumbing in Edmonton and surrounding communities.

For frozen pipes, burst pipe repairs or winter plumbing service in Edmonton, contact us or call (780) 850-8817.