We live in Canada! And let’s face it, winters in the Toronto area and in Durham Region are cold. Cold can lead to frozen pipes – but it doesn’t have to.

When water freezes in your pipe it expands and can apply enough pressure to the pipe to damage it, causing a leak as the water thaws and begins to flow again. This, as you may unfortunately know, can lead to significant water damage.

In order to minimize the risk of frozen pipes, you can apply a few preventative measures. While it is always best to work with a local, licensed plumber, here are a few easy steps you can follow to get your pipes ready – you can thank us later.

• Clean your gutters – clogged gutters can overflow, land on the ground near your house and may seep into foundation or basement.
• Unhook outdoor hoses – Drain the hoses and store them for the season somewhere that will stay above freezing to prevent the hose from cracking.
• Sewer and Septic – Clean your sewer line and pump and get your septic tank pumped.
• Insulate – Insulate your pipes to protect them from freezing. This can be as simple as wrapping a towel around the more vulnerable areas or applying a more professional insulation solution.
• Find your Water Valve – It’s always a good idea to know where your main water valve is, and how to shut it off – just incase.
• Talk to your neighbours – before you away on that mid-winter getaway, talk to your neighbours or a trusted friend to let them know when you will be away, how to reach you, and how to reach your plumber in the event of a pipe incident while you are away.
• Leave the door open – the cabinet door, that is. Leaving your kitchen cabinet and bathroom cabinet doors open can increase the flow of warm air that reaches your pipes.
• Turn the water on – in the case of a (potential) deep freeze, run the water at a constant trickle at a temperature above zero degrees to keep the flow of water constant and less likely to freeze.
• Prime your kitchen sink – every month or so, pour 1 gallon of bleach down your sink drink. Wait 20 minutes, fil your sink with warm water and then pull the plug. The volume of the water will help flush grease and debris that may otherwise cause a stoppage.

While these are just a few tips to help you prepare, remember that we are always just a phone call away. Don’t let seasonal preparations or minor ‪‎plumbing issues become a disaster! With skilled, experienced, licensed plumbers are your disposal 24 hours and day, 7 days a week, Marco Plumbing has your pipes- and your piece of mind – well covered.