Winter weather conditions can quickly become dangerous with little or no warning. PreparedBC’s severe winter weather and storm preparedness guide helps you learn how to prepare yourself, your home and your vehicle for winter conditions.
When taking steps to prepare your home for cold temperatures it’s important to know how to prevent your pipes from freezing. When it gets really cold, pipes can freeze and burst causing serious water damage. To minimize the risk of this happening, here are some simple ways to prevent pipes from freezing.
Maintain a warm temperature in your home, if possible
Taking a vacation to hit the slopes or find some sun this winter? Set your thermostats no lower than 12 degrees Celsius to help keep your home warm and prevent your pipes from freezing. It’s also a good idea to have someone come check in on your home while you’re away.
Turn off outside faucets
Pipes that are exposed to severe cold like outdoor hoses and sprinkler lines are at higher risk of freezing. Shut off water flow to outdoor faucets. Remove hoses and sprinklers and store them until it’s warmer.
Insulate exposed pipes
Exterior pipes that are exposed to cold temperatures or interior pipes that are in areas of your home that aren’t heated (attic, crawlspace, etc.) are at risk of freezing. Give them some extra warmth this winter.
Insulating hot water pipes also helps reduce the amount of energy lost from your hot water tank to your faucet. Insulating these pipes can reduce the risk of frozen pipes, offer energy savings and bring hot water to your faucet faster. A win-win-win.
Know how to shut off your water
If you do experience a burst pipe this winter, turn off your main water valve. Remember – righty tighty. Call a plumber for help with the next steps.
Here’s to a warm and dry home this winter season!
To learn more about how to prepare for severe winter weather and storms, visit: PreparedBC.ca/WinterWeather
