How to Winterize Pipes: A Simple Guide for Southern Manitoba | Trav's Plumbing & HVAC
How to Winterize Pipes: A Simple Guide for Southern Manitoba
As the cold season approaches in Southern Manitoba, you might be wondering how to avoid the dreaded frozen pipe nightmare.
Frozen pipes don’t just stop your water flow — they can burst and leave you with costly water damage.
Not fun, right?
Luckily, preparing your pipes for winter doesn’t have to be complicated.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through easy steps to winterize your pipes and protect your home from freezing temperatures – both for when you’re on vacation or for when you’re at home.
Let’s dive in!
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Why You Need to Winterize Pipes in Southern Manitoba
If you live in Southern Manitoba, you already know that winter can be brutal, with temperatures often dipping well below -30°C.
When the cold hits, any water left in your pipes can freeze, expand, and eventually burst the pipe.
This could lead to expensive repairs, not to mention the hassle of cleaning up water damage.
But don’t worry!
Winterizing your pipes is a straightforward process that can save you from a world of pain (and expense).
Winterizing Pipes When You’re Staying Home
If you plan to be home throughout the winter, your focus should be on preventative measures to keep your pipes from freezing.
Here’s what to do:
1. Keep Your Heat On
Make sure your thermostat is set to at least 13°C (55°F), even in rooms you don’t use often.
Keeping your house warm helps prevent your pipes from freezing.
2. Open Cabinet Doors
For pipes under sinks or in unheated areas like kitchens and bathrooms, open the cabinet doors.
This allows warm air to circulate around the pipes.
3. Drip Faucets on Cold Nights
Letting faucets drip slightly during particularly cold nights keeps the water moving, which helps prevent freezing.
4. Insulate Exposed Pipes
Any pipes running through unheated spaces (attics, basements, garages) should be insulated.
Use foam insulation or heat tape to protect them from the cold.
5. Close Garage Doors
If you have plumbing running along garage walls, keeping the garage door closed helps prevent cold drafts from reaching the pipes.
GET HELP WINTERIZING YOUR PIPES
How To Winterize Pipes When You’re Going on Vacation
Planning to escape the Manitoba winter?
Lucky you!
But before you go, make sure to winterize your pipes:
1. Turn Off the Main Water Supply
Before leaving, turn off your home’s main water supply.
This prevents water from flowing if your pipes freeze and burst.
2. Drain Your Pipes
After turning off the main water valve, open all your faucets to let any remaining water drain out.
Don’t forget to flush your toilets to empty the tanks!
3. Adjust the Water Heater
Set your water heater to its lowest setting or vacation mode to prevent it from freezing while you’re away.
4. Add Antifreeze to Drains
In areas where standing water might remain, such as toilets or drains, consider adding non-toxic antifreeze.
This helps keep the water from freezing.
5. Leave the Heat On
Even if you’re not home, keep your thermostat set to at least 13°C (55°F) to prevent residual water in the pipes from freezing.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Forgetting to Drain Pipes: Water left in pipes can freeze, expand, and burst. Always double-check that every faucet is drained.
Turning the Heat Off Completely: Even if you’re away, keep your home at a safe temperature to prevent freezing.
Neglecting Outdoor Faucets: These are the most exposed, so don’t skip them when winterizing your pipes.
Signs Your Pipes Might Freeze
If you notice slower water flow, hear strange noises (like gurgling), or see frost on exposed pipes, your pipes might be starting to freeze.
In this case, act quickly by turning on faucets to let water trickle and calling a professional if needed!
How to Safely Thaw Frozen Pipes
If your pipes freeze despite your best efforts, here’s what to do:
Use a hairdryer or heat tape: Direct warm air to the frozen area.
Keep faucets open: Running water can help thaw pipes faster.
Don’t use an open flame: Avoid using blow torches or any other fire hazards to thaw pipes. If you’re unsure, call a professional.
How Trav's Plumbing & HVAC Can Help
Living in Southern Manitoba, you need a plumber who understands the extreme winters.
Trav's Plumbing & HVAC is here to help with:
Full Winterization Services: We offer thorough pipe winterizing to make sure your home is safe from the cold. From insulating exposed pipes to draining your system, we handle it all.
Emergency Pipe Repairs: If your pipes freeze or burst, call us for quick, reliable service.
Preventative Maintenance: Schedule regular inspections before the cold hits to avoid any surprises later on.
We know our winters can be harsh, so give us a call to get your pipes winter-ready!
Conclusion
Winterizing your pipes is an essential step for any homeowner in Southern Manitoba.
By following these simple steps, you can prevent frozen pipes and avoid expensive damage.
And remember, Trav's Plumbing & HVAC is here to help with all your plumbing needs this winter.
Stay warm, stay safe, and give us a call before the first cold snap!
FAQs: How to Winterize Pipes
Why is it important to winterize pipes?
Winterizing pipes helps prevent them from freezing and bursting during cold weather, which can lead to costly water damage and repairs. By draining water from pipes and insulating exposed sections, you protect your home and avoid major plumbing issues.
How do I winterize outdoor faucets?
Shut off the water supply to outdoor faucets, drain any remaining water, and disconnect hoses. You can also install insulated faucet covers for extra protection.
What should I do if my pipes freeze?
If your pipes freeze, open the faucets to allow water to trickle out as they thaw. Use a hairdryer or heat tape to warm the frozen areas. Avoid using open flames or blow torches.
Can I winterize pipes if I’m going away for the winter?
Yes! If you’re leaving your home for an extended time, shut off the main water supply, drain all the water from your pipes, and keep your thermostat set to at least 13°C (55°F) to prevent freezing.
How can Trav's Plumbing & HVAC help with winterizing pipes?
Trav's Plumbing & HVAC offers professional winterization services, including full inspections, pipe insulation, and emergency repairs in Southern Manitoba. Contact us to prepare your home for winter!
What are the signs that my pipes are about to freeze?
Common signs include slow water flow, strange noises from the pipes, or frost forming on exposed pipes. If you notice these signs, act quickly to prevent freezing or bursting.
