Freezing of pipes has always been a major concern for Toronto residents during the cold winter days. In areas with freezing temperature, freezing of water in the pipes is nothing abnormal. Water expands in volume when it freezes, and may result in pipe burst. As many of you may have already experienced, this can jeopardize any household and its regular lifestyle.
However, fortunately, it is possible to deal with this problem if you are aware of the correct techniques. For outdoor pipelines, thermal blankets can be used to prevent freezing of water. Please remember that thermal blankets should be used for your entire water supply line. Before wrapping the pipes with thermal blankets, they should be soaked in hot water. Be sure to put a two layer thick wrapping that fits snugly. Duct tapes or strings can also be used to secure the thermal blankets.
Adjustable head desk lamps can also be used to prevent freezing of indoor pipes. Make sure that the lamp is placed at least one inch apart from the pipe. Before using desk lamps, you must also ensure that there is no water leakage. If you do not have a desk lamp, you can use electric space heaters for the same reason. Heaters, however, should only be used in low heat setting.
Running water always has a temperature above freezing temperature regardless of ambient temperature. Therefore, one simple technique to prevent pipe freezing is to keep water dripping from your sinks throughout the day. Pipeline freezing can be prevented even by maintaining a very slow rate of water flow. Collect this water so that you can use this later, instead of wasting them. You can also keep your thermostat operating at the same temperature round the clock. Do not turn off the heating at night because this is the time when a severe fall in temperature occurs.
Always keep your garage doors closed and kitchen cabinet doors open during the winter days. This will lessen the chances of pipe freezing due to the circulation of warm air. For basements and attics, pipe freezing can be prevented by insulating them to maintain a higher temperature. You may also consider relocating all your exposed pipes. Seal all leakages in your pipeline network, if there is any. These air leaks allow cold air to come in contact with water, leading to its freezing. Before this winter, make sure all your garden hoses are disconnected. Also, drain out all water from pipes that lead to outdoor faucets and shut it off using an indoor valve.
Since many years, we have been helping Toronto residents with all their plumbing issues with an incomparable track record. Call us today to prepare and prevent your plumbing system from pipe freezing.
