How to prevent frozen pipes in winter? The first 5 things to do if pipes burst

Frozen pipes themselves aren't dangerous, but the ice expanding can crack the pipes. When it thaws, water sprays out and can flood the basement in hours. The good news: most freezes and cracks can be prevented.

Pipes most likely to freeze

• Pipe sections connected to exterior faucets.
• Pipes in garage, unfinished basement, or crawl spaces.
• Pipes under kitchen or bathroom cabinets against exterior walls.
• Pipes under house extensions or sunrooms.
• When the house is empty for a long time and heat is set very low.

Winter prevention tips

1. Turn off outdoor faucets: Turn off indoor valves, open outdoor faucets to drain, disconnect garden hoses.
2. Insulate the pipes.: Buy foam insulation sleeves at hardware stores and insulate pipes in garages, basements, exterior walls. Use CSA-certified heating tape in very cold areas.
3. Seal air leaks.: Seal holes, vents, or gaps near pipes on cold walls with foam or sealant.
4. Locate the main water valve: Usually near the basement water entry, next to the water meter. Try turning it.

Especially cold nights

• Open kitchen and bathroom cabinet doors by exterior walls to let in heat.
• Open outdoor faucets slightly for a slow drip (much cheaper than a burst).
• Don't set heat too low at night; don't turn off heating when away for days, keep above 13°C.

Found a frozen pipe

If a faucet drips just a little or no water at all, it's likely frozen.

1. Leave faucets dripping to allow thawed water to flow and reduce pipe pressure.
2. Start heating near the faucet using a hair dryer, space heater, or warm towel.
3. Never use open flames(Blowtorch, lighter, charcoal fire) can cause fire and uneven heating that bursts pipes.
4. If you can't locate or reach the frozen spot, call a plumber.

If a pipe bursts, first do these 5 things

1. Turn off the main water valve.: Turn the valve clockwise fully near the basement water meter.
2. Turn off power if water is near outlets or appliances: Turn off the circuit breaker corresponding to the pipes without standing in water; if unsafe, don't touch. Call 911 or the power company.
3. Open the lowest faucet in your home, Drain the leftover water from pipes.
4. Take photos and videos, Record the time for Insurance claim purposes.
5. Call a plumber.For emergency repairs, also contact Insurance company. If there’s a large leak, hire a specialized water extraction and drying company to prevent mold.

You can check common prices for Burst Pipe Emergency Repair first. Burst Pipe Emergency Repair cost. Emergency service is generally more expensive late night, weekends, holidays.

FAQ

Is leaving a faucet drip really helpful?

Yes. Running water doesn't freeze easily and also relieves pressure in the pipe, reducing burst risks. Just run the taps most prone to freezing on very cold nights.

What about going away in winter?

Keep the heat on (above 13°C). Turn off the main water valve and drain the faucets. Ask a friend or neighbor to check your home every day or two. Some Insurance companies require regular checks for long absences — check your policy before leaving.

Does Insurance cover burst pipes?

Many homes Insurance cover “Suddenly, unexpectedly” pipe bursts, but some deny claims if reasonable freeze protection isn’t taken (e.g., turning off heating when away). Check your policy.