Preventing Frozen Water Pipes During Extreme Cold

Kawartha Lakes – Colder winter temperatures in Kawartha Lakes can increase the risk of frozen water pipes. The municipality is reminding residents to take preventative steps to protect household plumbing, avoid service disruptions, and reduce the risk of costly repairs.

During periods of extreme or prolonged cold, homeowners are encouraged to follow these preventative measures:

• Keep kitchen, laundry, and bathroom cabinet doors open to allow warm air to circulate around water pipes and water meters. Ensure all cleaning products and chemicals are stored safely out of reach of children and pets.
• Maintain a minimum indoor household temperature of 13 degrees Celsius (55°F) at all times.
• Drain and shut off exterior taps.
• Insulate pipes near exterior walls, in crawl spaces, or in attics using foam pipe insulation.
• Seal air leaks in the home and garage, and keep garage doors closed.
• If leaving your home for an extended period, shut off the main water valve (typically located in the basement), open taps to drain water lines, and arrange for someone to check the home regularly.
• If frozen pipes have occurred previously, consider consulting a qualified plumber about lowering the water service line to a depth of at least two metres and ensuring waterlines on exterior walls are properly insulated.

Frozen pipe FAQ

How do I know if my water line is frozen?

If you open the tap closest to where the water line enters your home and experience very low flow or no water at all, the line may be frozen

Can I thaw the lines myself? How do I do that if they become frozen?

We strongly recommend that you call a licenced plumber to do this. Attempting to thaw or repair a frozen line if you do not have experience could create a leak and cause damage, which may create an insurance issue for you.

Does the municipality cover the cost of thawing or heating a line? 

It is the responsibility of the property owner to maintain and/or replace the portion of the water service located within the building, and between the building to the property line. However, if the City watermains are frozen on municipal property (outside and beyond your property line), and your plumber calls us PRIOR to commencing work, the municipality may be responsible for costs related to that portion of the repair.

If I let the water tap ‘trickle’ to help keep the water line from freezing, who pays for the water usage costs? 

This is a cost to the homeowner. While this may increase water consumption, it is generally far less expensive than repairing a frozen or damaged water line. The risk is higher for property owners who have previously experienced frozen services. 

How long should I run my taps and how fast?

A steady stream of about 6mm or ¼ inch (about the thickness of a drinking straw) should be sufficient. The tap should run all night and day until temperatures rise. Please note this measure is not necessary if you have never experienced frozen lines in the past. Again, we recommend you call a licenced plumber to assess your personal situation and provide further guidance.

How can I warm my basement or crawl space if it isn’t heated?

Use a small micro-furnace or box heater with a thermostat to control the temperature so that it does not get lower than five degrees above zero. Be sure to use caution, especially around flammable materials.