Frozen pipes are possible this winter. Here’s what to do

Although the people of Ottawa find ways to enjoy the cold — hello Rideau Canal — the frigid temperatures can also pose problems to homes and businesses.

During a deep freeze, frost penetrates into the ground and can cover water lines that the city connects to people’s homes, a press release from the municipality reads. To combat this issue where pipes can become a block of ice, the city also has a dedicated water linear service team.

There are about 2,000 homes and businesses that have water pipes that are shallow or less insulated, this makes them more vulnerable to freezing. Those who are at these properties will get notified to run water when the frost depth is critical.

The city notes it uses modelling for frost based on average daily temperatures from Environment Canada. The monitoring starts when it drops below zero.

What to do if pipes freeze?

If there’s no water running, it’s possible the lines could be frozen. Ottawa asks people to submit the service notice to 311, which will be forward to the first response team.

“If a water service pipe freezes, the First Response Team will work to restore water service to the affected property as soon as possible,” the city writes.

How to prevent frozen pipes

• Keep the heat on: Indoor temperature of at least 8 C
• Keep water lines warm: Leave doors open to areas with water lines or water meter, allowing air to circulate
• Insulate pipes near exterior walls: Wrap foam pipe insulation around pipes that are more likely to freeze near exterior walls, in crawl spaces, or in the attic
• Keep the garage closed: To prevent cold air from reaching hidden water pipes, such as those in the ceiling servicing upstairs bathrooms
• Disconnect outdoor hoses: When hoses remain connected, the outside taps can’t drain and will freeze. Older taps often have a shutoff valve located in the basement ceiling, locate these, and shut them off for the winter
• Leave water service buried: The snow acts as insulation and clearing snow from above allows the frost to dive down to the water line
• Locate the shut-off valve: Find the home’s interior water shut-off valve and ensure it is operational