Dec20

By Dave Bangar

Avoid These Common Winter Plumbing Mistakes in Kelowna

Winter in Kelowna brings its fair share of challenges, especially when it comes to your home’s plumbing. The combination of freezing temperatures and heavy snow can lead to significant issues, like frozen pipes which can lead to burst pipes, resulting in costly water damage. With the proper preparation and knowledge, many of these problems can be avoided.

In this blog, we’ll highlight some of the most frequent winter plumbing mistakes homeowners make in Kelowna and provide tips on how to prevent them. By taking these simple precautions, you can keep your plumbing in good condition and avoid the need for an emergency plumber.

Common Winter Plumbing Mistakes in Kelowna, British Columbia

Mistake #1: Forgetting to Turn Off Outdoor Spigots

One of the most common winter mistakes is leaving outdoor spigots and garden hoses connected. When water is left inside the hose or spigot, it can freeze, expand, and cause the pipe to burst.

To prevent this plumbing emergency, disconnect all garden hoses before temperatures drop and shut off the water supply to outdoor spigots. Drain any remaining water from the pipes and consider using insulated covers to protect the fixtures from freezing temperatures.

Mistake #2: Ignoring Dripping Taps

A dripping tap during the winter might seem like a minor annoyance, but it could indicate a more serious issue, such as frozen pipes. When water inside the pipe freezes, it can create pressure that leads to leaks or bursts.

If you notice a tap dripping or find that water flow has slowed, it’s best to contact a Kelowna plumber right away. Addressing the issue early can prevent damage caused by a burst pipe. My Plumber Kelowna offers reliable burst pipe repair services to help you resolve the problem quickly.

Mistake #3: Not Insulating Exposed Pipes

Exposed pipes in unheated areas, such as basements, crawlspaces, garages, or attics, are highly vulnerable to freezing during cold snaps. When water in these pipes freezes, it expands, causing the pipe to crack or burst.

To avoid this, insulate all exposed pipes using foam pipe covers or heat tape. Proper insulation is one of the simplest and most effective ways to protect your pipes during the winter months.

If your pipes do freeze despite your precautions, don’t wait for the situation to worsen. Call an emergency plumber immediately to prevent further damage.

Mistake #4: Overlooking Your Water Heater

During winter, your water heater works harder to provide hot water, making it more prone to wear and tear. Ignoring maintenance can result in a breakdown at the worst possible time, leaving you without hot water on a cold day.

To avoid this, flush your water heater annually to remove sediment buildup and check for any signs of damage. If your water heater is old or struggling to meet your household’s needs, consider upgrading to a more efficient model.

Mistake #5: Skipping Regular Plumbing Inspections

Winter is the worst time for plumbing surprises, but many homeowners neglect regular plumbing inspections that could catch potential issues early. A professional inspection can identify weak points in your plumbing system, such as small leaks or corroded pipes, before they turn into major problems.

Mistake #6: Forgetting to Leave a Tap Dripping During Extreme Cold

During periods of extreme cold, many homeowners forget to leave a tap dripping to keep water moving through the pipes. A slow, steady flow of water can help prevent freezing pipes by relieving pressure within the pipes.

This simple step is critical if you plan to be away from home for an extended period during the winter. Also, make sure to keep your home’s thermostat at a consistent temperature to avoid freezing pipes while you’re gone.

Mistake #7: DIY Repairs on Frozen or Burst Pipes

While it might be tempting to try and fix a frozen or burst pipe yourself, it’s often best to leave it to the professionals. DIY attempts can sometimes make the situation worse, leading to more extensive damage and costly repairs.

Call a licensed Kelowna plumber immediately if you suspect a frozen or burst pipe. My Plumber Kelowna provides 24/7 emergency plumbing services to handle plumbing issues quickly and efficiently. 

Protect Your Plumbing This Winter

Kelowna winters can be harsh on your plumbing, but with proper preparation and maintenance, you can avoid many common issues. By insulating pipes, turning off outdoor spigots, and scheduling regular inspections, you can keep your home safe from frozen or burst pipes and avoid unnecessary stress.

For expert plumbing services in Kelowna, West Kelowna, and Lake Country, contact My Plumber Kelowna today. Whether you need repairs, maintenance, or emergency assistance, our team is here to help.

Call us now at 250-900-3175 to schedule your service and enjoy peace of mind this winter.