Frozen Pipe Prevention in Gatineau: Protect Your Home This Winter
Gatineau winters are harsh, with temperatures that can plunge well below freezing for extended periods. When water in pipes freezes, it expands—and that expansion can split pipes or burst fittings, causing catastrophic water damage when the ice thaws. Preventing frozen pipes is far easier and less expensive than dealing with the aftermath. Plombier Gatineau helps homeowners protect their plumbing from winter's worst.
Why Pipes Freeze
Vulnerable Locations
Pipes most at risk are those in exterior walls, unheated areas (garages, crawl spaces, attics), near windows or doors with drafts, in cabinets against exterior walls, and outdoor faucets and supply lines.
Temperature Threshold
Pipes can begin to freeze when temperatures drop below -6°C (20°F), especially if they're in poorly insulated areas or exposed to wind.
Prevention Strategies
Insulate Pipes
Pipe insulation is inexpensive and effective. Foam pipe sleeves or fiberglass wrap protect vulnerable pipes. Pay special attention to pipes in unheated areas and exterior walls.
Seal Air Leaks
Cold air infiltration near pipes accelerates freezing. Seal gaps around pipes where they enter the house, cracks in exterior walls, and openings around electrical and cable penetrations.
Keep Heat On
Never let your home's temperature drop below 13°C (55°F), even when away. The cost of heating far less than the cost of frozen pipe damage.
Open Cabinet Doors
During extreme cold, open cabinet doors under sinks on exterior walls to let warm air circulate around pipes.
Let Faucets Drip
In extreme cold, letting faucets drip slightly keeps water moving, reducing freeze risk. Even a trickle helps.
Disconnect Outdoor Hoses
Before winter, disconnect garden hoses and drain outdoor faucet supply lines. Shut off interior valves to outdoor faucets if possible.
Heat Tape
Electric heat tape wraps around pipes and provides gentle heat to prevent freezing. Useful for particularly vulnerable pipes.
When You're Away
If leaving your home for an extended period during winter, maintain heat at a safe level (at least 13°C), have someone check the house regularly, shut off the main water and drain the system for extended absences, and consider a smart thermostat that alerts you to temperature drops.
If Pipes Freeze
Don't Panic
Frozen pipes don't always burst. If caught before thawing, damage can often be prevented.
Find the Freeze
Locate frozen sections by checking for frost on pipes, sections that feel extremely cold, or areas where water won't flow.
Thaw Carefully
Never use open flame. Use a hair dryer, heat lamp, or electric heating pad. Start from the faucet end and work toward the frozen section.
Call a Professional
If you can't locate the freeze, can't access it, or suspect damage, call for professional help immediately.
Our Frozen Pipe Services
Plombier Gatineau provides professional pipe thawing, frozen pipe damage repair, pipe insulation installation, heat tape installation, and 24/7 emergency response for frozen and burst pipes.
Areas Served
We help homeowners prevent and address frozen pipes throughout Gatineau, Hull, Aylmer, Chelsea, and surrounding areas.
Prepare for Winter
Don't wait for a crisis. Call Plombier Gatineau at (819) 317-0262 to winterize your plumbing before temperatures drop.
Frequently Asked Questions
At what temperature do pipes freeze?
Pipes can begin to freeze when temperatures drop below -6°C (20°F), especially in unprotected areas.
Will my insurance cover frozen pipe damage?
Many policies cover sudden water damage from burst pipes, but coverage varies. Prevention is always better than filing a claim.