Burst Pipes Are a Winter Nightmare
A quick Google search for burst pipes can reveal one thing: frozen pipes can be the worst. A sudden cold snap can make your plumbing turn around. However, do we need to be concerned about frozen pipes bursting in Ottawa?
The chance of getting a cold is much lower in a region closely connected to hot summers than in cold winters. However, frozen pipes are an option, and it’s best to be ready for cold weather.
Why Cold Weather Causes Pipes to Burst
When water is frozen, it expands and exerts pressure on the surrounding. Imagine how it happens when you freeze your bottle of water as the plastic expands as the water hardens into ice.
Water is frozen, and pressure increases. It could lead to the lines bursting or even to burst. Similar things happen inside your pipes when the temperatures are cold enough.
The exposed pipework along the exterior walls is particularly susceptible to burst and freeze in the event of sudden, dramatic temperature drops.
How to Prevent Burst Pipes in Winter
To avoid freezing pipes, you must plan. It’s like stepping out in the frigid air without a jacket only to decide to return and put on one just 30 minutes later. It’s already cold and numb, and you could have averted the sensation all along!
In the meantime, as the cold gets, here’s how to prepare.
Insulation
The most effective method for protecting your plumbing is insulation. The heat flow to your faucets and shower is maintained, preventing it from freezing. Directing heat toward your faucets and rain prevents it from freezing. Pipes outside, like ones connected to hot water systems, should be insulated using insulated pipe sleeves.
Pipes in other exposed areas, such as garages or ceiling spaces, must be protected by insulation as they’re less secure from the weather. Pipe insulation is available at a hardware store. You can also use blankets or sheets in the event of a need for a temporary solution.
Heating
Maintaining a comfortable temperature within the house will benefit your plumbing, but it’s not the only option. Steady warm water flow can reduce the risk of pipes becoming frozen. It’s not something you wish to keep doing each day; however, it’s an option to keep the water flowing and decrease the possibility of having ice build-up.
Make sure you capture any water drip to reuse, and remember that this is merely an interim step. The best option is to use insulation.
Water Use
As mentioned earlier, the water that flows will not be prone to freezing. It means that regular use of water is beneficial during winter. Things such as flushing the toilet, showering, and running the washer can help a lot of water flow into your water pipes.
If you plan to save these tasks for cold spells, it’s an excellent method to prevent pipe freezing from slow-moving water.
Make a Call to Ottawa Plumbing Service
If you’re uncertain about the level of your plumbing secured, call Ottawa Plumbing Service. Our plumbers in Ottawa are experts in preventing burst pipes. They can conduct an extensive investigation to ensure everything is working and ready for cold.
And if you’re unfortunately staring at a frozen or burst pipe right now, call (613) 317-1682 or email us at info@ottawaplumbingservice.com.
