Winter in Calgary brings more than snow and cold—it brings risks for your home’s plumbing. Freezing temperatures and icy conditions put extra pressure on pipes, drains, and fixtures. Getting your plumbing ready is a straightforward way to avoid damage, costly repairs, and discomfort during the winter months. Here’s how to prepare, with advice directly from Icon Plumbing & Heating.
1. Insulate Exposed Pipes
Freezing pipes are one of the biggest winter plumbing issues in Calgary. When pipes freeze, they can burst, causing severe water damage. Insulating pipes in exposed areas helps protect them from Calgary’s freezing temperatures.
Key areas to check:
- Basements, garages, attics, and crawl spaces
- Exterior walls and any exposed plumbing under sinks
- Outdoor faucets and spigots
Steps for insulation:
- Use foam pipe insulation around exposed pipes.
- Install heat tape in areas where insulation isn’t enough.
- Disconnect and drain outdoor hoses, and cover outdoor spigots.
Adding insulation and disconnecting outdoor connections makes a noticeable difference. These small steps ensure that even the harshest Calgary weather doesn’t impact your pipes.
2. Keep a Consistent Indoor Temperature
In Calgary’s cold months, your heating system is essential for more than comfort—it helps protect your plumbing. Maintaining a consistent indoor temperature throughout the day and night can prevent pipes from freezing.
Best practices:
- Keep your thermostat set above 15°C, even when you’re away.
- Open cabinet doors under sinks to let warm air reach the pipes.
- If your home has areas that are hard to heat, consider portable heaters to maintain warmth around plumbing.
A stable temperature prevents stress on your pipes, reducing the risk of freezing and keeping your home safe. Icon Plumbing & Heating recommends maintaining this temperature even in rooms you rarely use during winter.
3. Drain Your Water Heater
Sediment buildup in water heaters is common, especially in areas with hard water. Over time, sediment accumulates, reducing your heater’s efficiency. Winter is the perfect time to flush your water heater to ensure it’s ready to provide reliable hot water during Calgary’s cold season.
Water heater maintenance steps:
- Turn off the water heater and let it cool.
- Connect a garden hose to the drain valve and direct the water to a safe drainage area.
- Open the drain valve and flush out the sediment until the water runs clear.
Regular flushing extends your water heater’s life and helps it work efficiently. This maintenance step keeps your energy costs down and ensures you have the hot water needed during Calgary’s winter.
4. Test Your Sump Pump
Heavy snowfall and sudden thaws can lead to basement flooding if your sump pump isn’t functioning correctly. Your sump pump protects your basement by redirecting excess water. Testing it before winter ensures it’s ready for Calgary’s unpredictable winter weather.
Testing steps:
- Pour a bucket of water into the sump pit to activate the pump.
- Check to see if the pump turns on and the water drains out properly.
- Inspect the discharge line to make sure it’s free of debris.
Regular sump pump testing and maintenance reduce your risk of basement flooding and water damage. It’s an easy but vital step for any Calgary homeowner.
5. Know the Location of Your Main Shutoff Valve
In an emergency, knowing how to shut off your water supply can save you from severe water damage. If a pipe bursts or another plumbing issue occurs, shutting off your main water valve stops the flow of water immediately.
Steps to prepare:
- Locate your main water shutoff valve, usually near the water meter.
- Make sure it’s easy to access and not blocked by boxes, furniture, or other items.
- Test the valve by turning it off and on to ensure it works smoothly.
When winter hits and emergencies happen, every second counts. Knowing where your shutoff valve is and making sure it’s in good condition can prevent damage while you wait for assistance from your trusted plumbing company Calgary.
Preparing for Winter with Icon Plumbing & Heating
Simple preparation steps go a long way toward keeping your plumbing safe during Calgary’s winter. By insulating pipes, keeping your home warm, flushing your water heater, testing your sump pump, and knowing your main shutoff valve, you’re taking practical steps to protect your home. Winterizing your plumbing ensures fewer headaches, lower plumbing repair costs, and greater peace of mind.
When winter plumbing issues arise, rely on experts who understand Calgary’s unique winter challenges. Call Icon Plumbing & Heating, and let us keep your home warm and safe all season long.