Frozen Pipes in Calgary: What Homeowners Should Do

Calgary winters can put household plumbing under serious stress. When water inside a pipe freezes, it expands and can create enough pressure to split the pipe or damage a fitting. The leak may not become obvious until the ice begins to thaw, which is why a frozen pipe should be treated as an urgent plumbing issue.

Signs you may have a frozen pipe

A faucet that suddenly produces little or no water is one of the most common warning signs. You may also notice frost on exposed piping, unusual smells from a drain, or visible bulging in a pipe. Pipes near exterior walls, garages, crawl spaces and other cold areas are typically more vulnerable.

What to do if you suspect a frozen pipe

Turn off the affected fixture and locate your main water shutoff so you can react quickly if the pipe has split. If the pipe is accessible and there is no visible damage, gentle room heat may help. Never use an open flame or torch. If you see a crack, active leak or water damage, shut off the water supply and arrange professional service.

How to prevent frozen pipes

Keep vulnerable areas heated, seal cold-air drafts, insulate exposed piping and disconnect outdoor hoses before severe cold arrives. During extreme weather, opening cabinet doors around plumbing can allow warmer indoor air to circulate. If a property will be vacant, do not turn the heat off completely.

When a frozen pipe becomes an emergency

A burst pipe can release a large amount of water in a short time. Active flooding, a damaged main line or a pipe that has visibly split requires prompt attention. Calgary homeowners dealing with an urgent leak can use our emergency plumbing service for help assessing and repairing the problem.