The climate here in southern Ontario can create prime conditions for freezing pipes—leading to costly, inconvenient damage to your home's plumbing system. Make sure your home is as ready as possible for colder weather, in order to avoid freezing pipes.

Ontario’s winter climate can be enjoyable: We experience sunny winter days that can lift our spirits and replenish vitamin D; however, we are subject to harsh, cold days as well. In fact, average winter temperatures range from minus 1 to 8 degrees Celsius, with temperatures far below that range common, too. And when extreme temperatures combine with a power outage or ice storm, the potential for freezing pipes grows incrementally.

Follow the steps below to prepare your home's plumbing system:

• Make sure your plumbing pipes are insulated, especially those located in unconditioned areas, like a crawl space or basement.
• You can also use specially designed heat tape or heat cables, and securely fasten the tape around the pipes. The tape you choose should be approved by the Underwriters Laboratories of Canada.
• Take steps to seal the air leaks around your home, as leaks will allow cold air to enter the home and cause even colder conditions under which pipes could freeze.
• Avoid releasing water to outdoor faucets in the winter, and shut off valves to the home's outdoor sources.
• Don’t set temperatures back at night if the outdoor temperatures are well below freezing.
• When temperatures are really low, open a few faucets so that they can drip water, which helps to prevent freezing pipes. You can also keep under-sink cabinet doors open so that pipes will have access to warmer air that exists within the home.

While freezing pipes will require you to pay a plumber or HVAC contractor to repair pipes, even the smallest of cracks in a pipe can lead to serious flooding, further compounding the problem and the cost. So it's critical to take the necessary steps to prevent your pipes from freezing.

For help getting your home ready for winter weather, or to have your heating system maintained, contact the home-comfort experts at Custom Comfort ClimateCare today. Serving Barrie and Simcoe Counties since 1988.