Keeping Pipes From Freezing In The Winter

Severe  Calgary winter weather can cause water pipes to freeze and break. Broken water pipes can cause damage to homes and businesses. Here are some protective measures to help guard against frozen and broken pipes.

TO KEEP PIPES FROM FREEZING:


Run a small stream of water continuously from faucets served by pipes that run along outside walls. Open cabinet doors to get more heat to the pipes. Close the garage door if water pipes pass through the garage.


IF THE PIPES ARE FROZEN IN ONE PART OF THE HOUSE, BUT NOT ALL:



Draw some drinking water from running faucets and reserve it.
Use a hand-held hair dryer to thaw out the pipe. However, in case the pipe has frozen and burst, first locate the main cutoff valve and make certain it works.


TO PROTECT OUTSIDE WATER LINES AND PREVENT FAUCETS FROM FREEZING:


Cut off inside valves before cold weather comes. If that has not been done yet, cut them off now and disconnect exterior hoses.
make sure all outside faucets are drained and shut off.


OTHER THINGS TO KNOW:


Learn where the house master valve is located. Be sure it is in good operating condition. Water damage can be limited if the valve is quickly turned off.
Be on the lookout for damp insulation. Water-soaked insulation can freeze in very cold weather.
Contact the Public Utilities Department if you suspect the water meter has frozen. It can be dangerous and costly to attempt to thaw the meter yourself.