Halifax Water: Winter Water Tips

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Post on Jan 22, 2025

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Halifax Water: Winter Water Tips

Winter in Halifax can be harsh, and that harshness extends to your plumbing system. Freezing temperatures can lead to burst pipes, costly repairs, and inconvenient disruptions to your water service. This guide from Halifax Water provides essential tips to protect your home and prevent winter water woes.

Protecting Your Pipes from Freezing Temperatures

The biggest threat to your plumbing during winter is freezing. When water freezes, it expands, putting immense pressure on your pipes. This pressure can cause cracks and even complete ruptures, leading to significant water damage and expensive repairs. Here's how to prevent this:

1. Insulate Exposed Pipes:

• Identify vulnerable areas: Look for pipes located in unheated areas like basements, crawl spaces, attics, and exterior walls.
• Insulation materials: Use pipe insulation sleeves, foam insulation, or heat tape to wrap exposed pipes. This creates a barrier against the cold.
• Consider heat tape: Heat tape provides additional protection, especially for pipes in particularly cold areas. Follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully.

2. Let the Water Drip:

• Slow drip: A slow, steady drip from faucets served by exposed pipes can help prevent freezing. The constant flow of water prevents the water in the pipes from becoming stagnant and freezing.
• Most vulnerable areas: Focus this drip on faucets connected to pipes in unheated areas like outside walls or basements.

3. Keep Your Thermostat Set:

• Consistent temperature: Maintaining a consistent temperature in your home, even when you're away, is crucial. A drastically lowered thermostat can increase the risk of freezing pipes.
• Emergency heat: If you're going away for an extended period, consider setting your thermostat to a minimum temperature or using a programmable thermostat to maintain a consistent temperature.

4. Open Cabinet Doors:

• Improved circulation: Open cabinet doors under sinks, especially those located on exterior walls. This allows warmer air to circulate around the pipes and helps prevent freezing.

Dealing with Frozen Pipes

Despite your best efforts, pipes can still freeze. Here's what to do if you suspect a frozen pipe:

• Locate the frozen section: Check for areas where pipes are cold to the touch or where water flow is restricted or stopped.
• Apply heat gradually: Never use a blowtorch or open flame to thaw a frozen pipe. Instead, apply heat gradually using a hairdryer, heating pad, or warm towels wrapped around the pipe.
• Monitor the situation: Keep checking for signs of thawing. If the pipe doesn't thaw within a few hours, or if you notice any leaks, immediately call a plumber.
• Contact Halifax Water: If a pipe bursts and you have significant water damage, contact Halifax Water immediately to report the issue and arrange for repairs.

Preventing Winter Water Damage Beyond Pipes

Freezing temperatures can also affect other aspects of your water system:

• Protect outdoor faucets: Disconnect and drain any garden hoses attached to outdoor faucets, and consider using insulated faucet covers.
• Check for leaks: Regularly inspect your home for any signs of leaks, both inside and outside. Early detection can prevent major damage.

Staying Informed with Halifax Water

Halifax Water provides regular updates and helpful resources on their website and social media channels. Staying informed about winter weather alerts and taking preventative measures will significantly reduce your risk of experiencing plumbing problems during the cold months. Remember, proactive measures are key to preventing costly repairs and water damage. Stay warm and stay prepared!