Frozen Pipes in Ottawa: Prevention Tips and What to Do If They Freeze

Winter in Ottawa brings chilly temperatures, and with that comes the risk of frozen pipes. When water freezes inside your pipes, it can lead to costly damage, disrupted water service, and even flooding. At Francis Plumbing Heating & Cooling, we understand the serious consequences of frozen pipes and are here to help you prevent them. Whether you live in Ottawa Central, Kanata, Barrhaven, Orléans, or Carleton Place, we have tips and services tailored to your home’s needs. In this blog, we’ll cover how to protect your pipes, signs of freezing, and what to do if your pipes freeze.

By the end of this blog, you’ll have a better understanding of how to keep your plumbing safe during the cold months and what actions to take in case the worst happens.

What Causes Frozen Pipes?

Frozen pipes occur when the temperature of water inside the pipe drops below freezing (0°C), causing it to freeze. Water expands when it freezes, putting pressure on the pipes. If this pressure is too much, it can cause the pipes to burst, leading to water damage in your home. Pipes that are most vulnerable to freezing are those located in unheated areas like basements, attics, crawl spaces, exterior walls, and garages.

In Ottawa’s harsh winters, it’s important to be proactive in preventing frozen pipes to avoid expensive repairs and water damage.

This type of water heater has been a reliable choice for Ottawa homeowners for decades, providing a consistent and ready supply of hot water. It’s especially popular in households with higher hot water demands, like those with larger families or multiple bathrooms.

How to Prevent Pipes from Freezing in Ottawa Homes

Insulate Vulnerable Pipes

One of the most effective ways to prevent pipes from freezing is to insulate them. Pipe insulation helps keep the water inside the pipe from reaching freezing temperatures, especially in areas of your home that aren’t heated. Look for foam pipe insulation, fiberglass, or heating cables that wrap around pipes to keep them warm.

Tip: Insulate pipes in your attic, garage, and crawl spaces, which are typically the most exposed to the cold. Or call Francis to redirect the location of the pipes.

Keep Your Home Warm

During the coldest months of the year, make sure your home is heated to a consistent temperature, especially in areas where pipes are located. Keep the thermostat at a minimum of 12°C, even if you’re away from home for extended periods. This helps prevent a sudden drop in temperature that could freeze pipes.

Allow Faucets to Drip

If you know that a cold period is coming, leave a faucet in your home slightly open. Allowing a small drip of water to flow through the pipes prevents pressure from building up inside. Moving water is less likely to freeze than standing water.

Seal Cracks and Gaps

Check for any cracks or gaps in your home’s exterior where cold air could get in. Common places to look include around windows, doors, and the foundation. Seal these gaps with caulk or foam to prevent cold drafts from reaching your pipes.

Signs Your Pipes Are Freezing

If you think your pipes might be freezing, it’s important to act quickly to prevent further damage. Here are the most common signs:

No Water Flow

If you turn on a faucet and nothing comes out, it could be a sign that the pipe leading to it has frozen. This is often the first indicator that something is wrong.

Frost on Pipes

If you notice visible frost or condensation on the outside of your pipes, this is a strong indicator that they are close to freezing.

Strange Odors or Sounds

Sometimes, frozen pipes will make a gurgling or banging sound as the water tries to flow through but is blocked by ice. You may also notice unusual odors if the water is stagnating in the pipes.

What to Do If Your Pipes Freeze

If you find that your pipes have frozen, here are the steps you can take to thaw them safely and minimize damage:

Step 1: Turn Off the Water

Before you do anything, turn off the water supply to your home. This will help prevent water from gushing out in case the pipe bursts after thawing.

Step 2: Thaw the Pipes Carefully

If you can access the frozen section of the pipe, you can try to thaw it out yourself. Here’s how:

Use a hairdryer or space heater to gently warm the pipe. Hold the heat source several inches away from the pipe and move it back and forth.
Use hot towels: If you can’t reach the pipe easily, soak towels in hot water, wring them out, and wrap them around the frozen section.
Never use an open flame like a blowtorch, as it can damage the pipe or even cause a fire.

Step 3: Call Francis Plumbing

If you’re unable to locate the frozen pipe, or if you suspect that the pipe has burst, call Francis Plumbing immediately. We offer 24/7 emergency plumbing services in Ottawa and surrounding areas including Nepean, Barrhaven, Russell, and Cumberland. Our skilled technicians can locate and thaw frozen pipes quickly, preventing further damage to your home.

The Dangers of Frozen Pipes: Why You Should Act Fast

Frozen pipes are a serious problem that should never be ignored. If a frozen pipe bursts, the resulting water damage can be catastrophic. The water can flood parts of your home, damaging walls, ceilings, floors, and even your furniture. The longer you wait to address the issue, the greater the damage.

At Francis Plumbing Heating & Cooling, we recommend acting quickly if you suspect a frozen pipe. Our team is ready to assist with emergency repairs and provide solutions to protect your home from freezing temperatures.

How Francis Plumbing Can Help

At Francis Plumbing Heating & Cooling, we’ve been serving Ottawa homeowners for over 80 years, offering expert plumbing, heating, and cooling services. Whether you’re dealing with frozen pipes, need an inspection, or want to upgrade your plumbing system to prevent future issues, our team is here to help.

We offer:

Emergency Plumbing Services: 24/7 availability to address frozen pipes and other urgent plumbing needs.
Pipe Insulation & Protection: We can help you identify vulnerable pipes and offer solutions to prevent freezing during the cold months.
Plumbing Maintenance: Regular inspections and maintenance to ensure your plumbing system is ready for winter.

If you’re experiencing issues with frozen pipes, don’t wait! Call Francis Plumbing Heating & Cooling at 613-224-0041 or visit our website to schedule a consultation today.

Prevent Future Frozen Pipes with Our Maintenance Plans

To avoid the headache of frozen pipes in the future, consider signing up for our Gold Maintenance Plan. This plan includes regular inspections, tune-ups, and priority service if an issue arises. Our expert technicians will ensure your plumbing system is prepared to handle the harsh winter months, keeping your home warm and your pipes safe from freezing.

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Call to Action

Frozen pipes can lead to significant damage and expensive repairs if not handled properly. By taking proactive steps to insulate pipes and keep your home warm during Ottawa’s cold winters, you can greatly reduce the risk. But if your pipes freeze, don’t hesitate to call the experts at Francis Plumbing Heating & Cooling for prompt, professional assistance.

We’ve been serving Ottawa families since 1933, and our commitment to quality and customer service makes us the trusted choice for all your plumbing needs.

For more tips on preventing frozen pipes or to schedule an emergency service, contact us today at 613-224-0041.

Frozen Pipes in Ottawa: Tips and What to Do If They Freeze