With temperatures dropping and the first round of snow hitting Calgary, it's time to make sure your home plumbing is winter-ready. As the city braces for the chilly months, homeowners should take precautionary steps to prevent common plumbing problems caused by cold weather. Winter is notorious for freezing temperatures, snowstorms, and ice, all of which can cause plumbing systems to fail if they aren't properly prepared. With a little attention and foresight, you can avoid major disruptions and costly repairs during the winter season.

In this blog, we’ll highlight the most common plumbing issues to watch out for, explain how they can affect your home, and provide useful tips to prevent them. Whether you're in the heart of Calgary or nearby areas, understanding these potential risks and knowing how to address them can save you a lot of time and money.

Why Do Pipes Freeze in Winter and How Can You Prevent It?

One of the most common plumbing issues in Calgary during winter is frozen pipes. As temperatures plunge, water inside pipes can freeze, expand, and cause the pipes to burst. This can lead to water damage, significant repair costs, and even mold growth if not handled promptly. Below are some key points to help prevent frozen pipes and keep your plumbing system protected during the winter months:

• Insulate Pipes: The first step in preventing frozen pipes is proper insulation. Exposed pipes, especially in areas like basements, attics, and garages, are at higher risk. You can wrap pipes in foam insulation or purchase heat tape that can be wrapped around your pipes to keep them warm.
• Allow Faucets to Drip: In areas that are particularly vulnerable to freezing, let your faucets drip slowly. This allows water to continue moving through the pipes, making it less likely to freeze.
• Keep Interior Doors Open: In cold weather, it’s important to keep interior doors open to maintain airflow. This is especially helpful in keeping pipes in cabinets (such as under kitchen and bathroom sinks) warm.
• Seal Gaps and Cracks: Inspect your home for any gaps around windows, doors, or where pipes enter your home. Seal these with caulking or foam to keep out cold drafts.
• Maintain a Consistent Temperature: If you plan to be away from home for an extended period during the winter, make sure your thermostat is set to at least 12°C (55°F). This will help keep the temperature in your home consistent and prevent the freezing of pipes.

How Can Clogged Drains Be Worse in Winter?

Clogged drains are a year-round plumbing issue, but winter can make them even worse. The cold temperatures slow the movement of water in your pipes, meaning that any grease, oils, and debris in your drains will take longer to break down or move through the system. In the kitchen, for example, oils from cooking can solidify faster in the cold, leading to stubborn blockages. Similarly, in bathrooms, hair, soap scum, and toothpaste residue can accumulate over time, which, combined with slower drainage, can cause more severe clogs.

What makes winter clogs more dangerous is that, when water backs up in pipes, it can freeze. Frozen water inside a clogged pipe only worsens the blockage, potentially leading to burst pipes.

In addition to the frozen water, the buildup inside your pipes can restrict the flow of water even further, leading to longer-term issues. The risk of frozen and bursting pipes makes it important to maintain your drains properly. Regularly clearing your drains of debris and running hot water through your system can keep them flowing smoothly throughout the colder months.

What Are the Signs of a Malfunctioning Water Heater in Winter?

As temperatures drop, your water heater becomes more critical than ever. However, winter can put additional strain on your water heater, leading to malfunctions. If your water heater isn’t properly maintained, it could leave you with cold showers, inefficient heating, and costly repairs.

Signs Your Water Heater Might Be Failing:

• No Hot Water: If you notice that your water isn’t getting hot or the temperature fluctuates, your water heater could be struggling to keep up with the demand. This could be due to a broken thermostat, sediment buildup, or a failing heating element.
• Strange Noises: If your water heater is making popping, rumbling, or hissing noises, it could be a sign of sediment buildup at the bottom of the tank. This can reduce efficiency and, if left unchecked, lead to a breakdown.
• Leaks or Drips: Leaking water from your water heater is a sign of potential corrosion or damage to the tank. If the leak is minor, it may be fixable, but if it’s substantial, you may need to replace the heater.
• Rusty Water: If you notice that the water from your taps has a reddish-brown tint, this could indicate rust in your water heater. This is a sign that your tank is deteriorating and should be inspected or replaced.

Maintaining Your Water Heater in Winter:

• Flush the Tank: To prevent sediment buildup, it’s a good idea to flush your water heater once a year. If you haven’t done so recently, now is the time to call a professional.
• Check the Temperature Setting: Set your water heater’s thermostat to 120°F (49°C) for optimal performance and energy efficiency. If it’s set too high, it can cause overheating and reduce the life of the unit.
• Insulate the Tank: To prevent heat loss, insulate your water heater with an insulating blanket. This will help keep the water at a consistent temperature and reduce energy consumption.
• Regular Inspections: Regular inspections from a licensed plumber can help spot potential issues before they become serious problems.

How Can Ice Damages to Outdoor Plumbing Be Prevented?

Outdoor plumbing is particularly vulnerable to ice and freezing temperatures during Calgary’s harsh winters. When snowstorms hit, water trapped in outdoor pipes can freeze and cause the pipes to burst or crack, leading to expensive repairs.

To prevent ice damage, it’s essential to protect your outdoor plumbing before the first freeze. Start by disconnecting all garden hoses from outdoor faucets. Water left in hoses or faucets can freeze, causing damage to both the hose and the faucet. It’s also a good idea to shut off the water supply to outdoor lines if your home has a separate shutoff valve for outdoor plumbing. This will prevent any water from being left in the pipes, where it could freeze and cause damage.

Insulating your outdoor pipes is also a smart step. You can wrap them in foam or use pipe sleeves to protect them from extreme cold. Adding faucet covers over your outdoor spigots provides an extra layer of protection, keeping freezing temperatures from reaching your pipes. By taking these simple precautions, you can prevent costly repairs to your outdoor plumbing and ensure that your home is winter-ready.

Winter in Calgary can bring its fair share of plumbing challenges, but with the right preparation, you can avoid many of the most common issues. By taking proactive steps like insulating your pipes, maintaining your water heater, and preventing clogs, you can ensure your plumbing system remains in top shape throughout the cold season.

If you're experiencing any of these issues or just want to ensure your home plumbing is winter-ready, ERM Plumbing & Heating is here to help. Our team of experts can inspect your plumbing system, provide necessary maintenance, and help prevent winter plumbing disasters. Don’t wait until it’s too late—contact us today at (403) 978-7385 to schedule a service and keep your home running smoothly all winter long.