How To: Winterized Plumbing in Your Northern Ontario Home
July 11, 2024
As the leaves start to turn and the chill of winter begins to make its presence felt, it’s time to think about winterized plumbing in your home. Winter weather also brings the necessity to safeguard your home’s plumbing system from the cold winds and snow.
In this post, we’ll present some essential tips to winterize plumbing in your home before the coming winter season.
If you’re not sure where to start, contact us at W.C. Plumbing Services for a free consultation on the winterized plumbing needs in your house.
1. Insulate Your Pipes
In Northern Ontario’s frigid winters, pipes are prone to freezing and possibly bursting. Protect your pipes by insulating them with foam pipe insulation, especially those located in unheated areas of your home.
If you’re not sure which type of insulation to use, consult your local plumber for recommendations.
2. Seal Cracks and Openings
Prevent cold air from seeping into your home by sealing any cracks or openings in walls, floors, and ceilings. This not only safeguards your plumbing but also helps in maintaining a warm and cozy ambiance indoors.
3. Service Your Hot Water Heater
Your hot water heater works overtime during the winter months. Ensure it is in prime condition by scheduling a servicing before the onset of cold weather. Consider wrapping it in an insulation blanket to prevent heat loss. You can also find hot water heater covers online at many retailers, including Walmart.
4. Disconnect Outdoor Hoses
Water remaining in hoses can freeze and cause pipes to burst. Make sure to disconnect outdoor hoses, drain them, and store them indoors before the first frost hits.
5. Winterize Your Sprinkler System
If you have a sprinkler system, winterize it by blowing out any remaining water. This will prevent freezing and potential damage to the piping system.
6. Emergency Contact Handy
Keep the contact details of a trusted local plumbing service like W.C. Plumbing Services handy. In the event of a plumbing emergency, swift action can prevent extensive damage.
7. Gutter and Downspout Clearance
Ensure that gutters and downspouts are clear of debris to prevent ice dams and facilitate the smooth flow of melting snow and ice away from your home.
8. Education and Community Awareness
Stay connected with your local community to receive timely updates on weather forecasts. Take all necessary precautions that are advised during severe cold spells.
As you snuggle up and enjoy the winter beauty that Ontario has to offer, rest assured that with these precautions in place, your home’s plumbing system is well-protected against the elements.
W.C. Plumbing Services is here to assist Bala residents and the surrounding area in preparing their homes for winter. Contact us here for all your home winterized plumbing needs, ensuring a warm and hassle-free winter season.
Stay warm and safe this winter!