Prevent Frozen Pipes this Winter
The pipes in your home can freeze in cold weather. This can leave you with no water or causeyour pipes to burst, leading to expensive property damage. Protect your home. Follow thesesteps to help prevent your pipes from freezing.Know your Pipes
- Ensure you know where the main water shut-off valve is in your home and how itoperates.
Insulate Pipes
- Wrap foam pipe insulation around pipes most at risk, especially near outside walls andin crawl spaces, the attic and garage.
Eliminate Drafts
- Seal air leaks in your home and garage to stop cold air from getting in. Check aroundwindows and doors, electrical wiring, dryer vents and pipes.
Drain and Shut the Outdoor Water Supply
- Outdoor faucets are the first to freeze. Unscrew any hoses, turn off the outdoor watersupply and let the taps drain.
Contact a Plumber
- If your pipes are prone to freezing, there may be a problem you cannot see. Getprofessional help on ways you can decrease your risks inside and out.
When the Weather Drops Well Below Zero Keep your Pipes Warm
- Keep areas that contain indoor pipes above 8OC, especially near the water meter. Opencabinet doors to allow warm air to circulate and keep your garage door closed.
Turn on the Tap
- For your own peace of mind, you can choose to run a pencil-thin stream of water toensure some movement of water in the pipes. However, you will be charged for thewater used if you choose this step.
For more information, visit toronto.ca/frozenpipes
