When the temperature drops, your plumbing system becomes more vulnerable to issues like frozen pipes, burst lines, and water heater malfunctions. Taking the time to prepare your plumbing for the cold can save you from costly repairs and water damage during the winter months.

At Plombier Candiac, we help homeowners in the Candiac area winterize their plumbing systems and avoid seasonal emergencies. In this guide, we’ll show you how to get your home’s plumbing ready for winter—step by step.

1. Insulate Exposed Pipes

Pipes located in unheated areas (basements, garages, crawlspaces, and exterior walls) are most at risk of freezing.

? How to Protect Them:
✔️ Wrap pipes with foam insulation sleeves or heat tape.
✔️ Use pipe insulation wrap on elbows and joints.
✔️ Seal cracks or holes in walls to block cold air drafts.

? Frozen pipes can crack and cause extensive water damage—so don’t skip this step!

2. Disconnect & Drain Outdoor Hoses

Leaving hoses connected during freezing weather can cause water to back up into your home’s plumbing, leading to burst pipes.

? How to Prepare:
✔️ Disconnect all garden hoses and drain any remaining water.
✔️ Store hoses indoors to prevent cracking.
✔️ Close the shut-off valve for exterior faucets and open the outside spigot to drain.
✔️ Install insulated faucet covers to protect outdoor taps.

? Need help winterizing outdoor plumbing? Contact Plombier Candiac for assistance.

3. Service Your Water Heater

Your water heater works harder in winter—especially if it’s located in a cold basement or garage. Give it a quick tune-up to ensure it performs efficiently.

? Winter Maintenance Tips:
✔️ Drain and flush the tank to remove sediment buildup.
✔️ Set the temperature to 120°F (49°C) for optimal efficiency.
✔️ Insulate the tank with a water heater blanket if it’s in a cold area.
✔️ Check for leaks or rust around the base.

? If your water heater is more than 10 years old, it may be time to upgrade to a more efficient model.

4. Seal Gaps Around Pipes and Fixtures

Cold air can enter your home through gaps around plumbing lines, especially where pipes exit the walls or floors.

? What to Do:
✔️ Use caulk or spray foam to seal gaps around pipes.
✔️ Check under sinks, in basements, and around utility entry points.
✔️ Install weather stripping on doors to reduce drafts near plumbing.

? For professional pipe inspection, contact Plombier Candiac.

5. Leave Faucets Dripping During Extreme Cold

During extreme cold spells, letting a faucet drip slightly can prevent pipes from freezing.

? Why It Works:
✔️ Keeps water moving through the pipes.
✔️ Reduces pressure buildup if freezing occurs.

? Focus on:
✔️ Exposed or exterior wall faucets.
✔️ Sinks far from the main water line.

? Even a slow drip can help prevent a costly burst pipe.

6. Locate Your Main Water Shut-Off Valve

In case a pipe does freeze and burst, you’ll need to shut off your water supply immediately to prevent flooding.

? How to Prepare:
✔️ Find the main shut-off valve (usually near the water meter or basement wall).
✔️ Make sure it turns easily—lubricate it if needed.
✔️ Show all household members where it’s located.

? If you can’t find or operate your main valve, Plombier Candiac can help you inspect and label it.

7. Winterize Vacant or Seasonal Properties

If you have a cottage, rental, or seasonal home, don’t forget to winterize its plumbing too.

? Checklist:
✔️ Shut off the main water supply.
✔️ Drain all water from pipes, toilets, and water heaters.
✔️ Add non-toxic antifreeze to toilet bowls and traps.
✔️ Keep the heat on at a minimum of 10°C (50°F) if possible.

? A single burst pipe in a vacant property can cause thousands in damage before it’s even discovered.

8. Schedule a Professional Plumbing Inspection

Want peace of mind before winter hits? Have a licensed plumber inspect your system for vulnerabilities, leaks, and outdated components.

✔️ Ensure your water heater, pipes, and fixtures are winter-ready.
✔️ Identify any pre-existing issues before freezing temperatures make them worse.
✔️ Get expert advice on insulation and long-term protection.

? Book your winter plumbing inspection with Plombier Candiac today!

Final Thoughts

Winter can be hard on your plumbing, but with a little preparation, you can prevent frozen pipes, leaks, and water damage. From insulating pipes to servicing your water heater, these simple steps will keep your plumbing system running smoothly all season long.

If you need help winterizing your home’s plumbing, contact Plombier Cowansville for expert plumbing services and winter prep.

? Don’t wait for freezing temps to strike—call us today to schedule your winter plumbing inspection! ❄️??