If you’re escaping Toronto’s frigid winter for a well-deserved vacation, don’t forget to prepare your home’s plumbing. Cold temperatures can lead to frozen pipes, leaks and costly damage, turning your getaway into a stressful return. TRUST these expert plumbing tips to keep your home safe and sound while you’re away.
1. Shut Off the Main Water Supply
The best way to prevent plumbing disasters is to turn off your home’s main water supply. This simple step stops water from flowing through your pipes, minimizing the risk of freezing and bursting. Trust his proactive measure to prevent costly water damage.
2. Drain and Flush Your Plumbing System
After shutting off the water, drain any remaining water from your pipes by opening faucets, flushing toilets and running outdoor hose bibs dry. Leftover water can freeze, expand and cause cracks in your plumbing. This process will help prevent hidden leaks.
3. Set Your Thermostat to a Safe Temperature
Even if no one is home, don’t turn off your heating. Keep your thermostat set to at least 15°C to prevent pipes from freezing. Maintaining a steady indoor temperature is one of the easiest ways to safeguard your plumbing.
4. Open Cabinet Doors Under Sinks
Pipes located under sinks – especially those near exterior walls are more prone to freezing. Keep cabinet doors open to allow warm air to circulate around the pipes. This small trick helps prevent freezing in vulnerable areas.
5. Disconnect and Drain Outdoor Water Sources
Outdoor hoses, faucets and irrigation systems should be disconnected and fully drained. Any water left behind can freeze and cause damage to both outdoor and indoor plumbing. This will help prevent unexpected leaks when temperatures drop
6. Have Someone Check In
Ask a reliable friend, neighbour or professional plumber to check on your home periodically. They can spot potential issues early and prevent small problems from becoming major disasters. Trust an extra set of eyes for added peace of mind.
7. Clear Your Gutters and Downspouts
Ice buildup in clogged gutters can lead to ice dams, which can cause water to seep into your home and damage walls, ceilings and insulation. Clean out leaves and debris to ensure proper drainage. This preventative measure helps protect more than just your plumbing.
8. Run a Slow Drip from Faucets
If you’re only away for a week or two and can’t shut off the main water supply, leave a few faucets – especially those along exterior walls slightly open to drip. This keeps water moving through the pipes, reducing the risk of freezing in extreme cold. It’s a simple trick that can help prevent costly damage while you’re away!
A winter getaway should be a time to unwind and enjoy a change of scenery not worry about what’s happening back home. Taking a few precautions before you leave can give you the confidence that your home is safe from plumbing issues while you’re away. A little preparation goes a long way in preventing unexpected surprises, so you can return to a home that’s just as you left it. Whether you’re gone for a few weeks or the entire season, ensuring your plumbing is in good shape will help you truly relax and enjoy your trip.
The Great Plumbing Co.
For nearly three decades, The Great Plumbing Co. has been providing exceptional plumbing services for homeowners as well as business owners throughout Toronto and the GTA. Whether you’re dealing with a leaky hose bib, a clogged drain, or a toilet repair and service you can trust The Great Plumbing Co. to deliver timely solutions tailored to your specific requirements.
Contact us or book online to schedule your residential plumbing appointment.