When Saskatchewan temperatures plunge below –30 °C, frozen pipes are one of the most common and expensive winter plumbing problems. A single burst pipe can cause thousands of dollars in damage within minutes. The good news? Most of these emergencies are preventable with a few proactive steps.
Here’s how to protect your home’s plumbing before the deep freeze hits.
Why Pipes Freeze in Saskatoon Winters
- Extreme temperature drops and cold drafts in unheated areas.
- Poor insulation around exterior walls or crawl spaces.
- Infrequent water use during vacations or overnight.
Pipes most at risk are those running through garages, basements, and exterior walls. When water inside a pipe freezes, it expands by nearly 9%, creating enough pressure to rupture copper or PVC lines.
How to Prevent Frozen Pipes
- Insulate Exposed Plumbing
Use foam sleeves, fiberglass wrap, or heating tape on pipes near exterior walls, crawl spaces, and unheated basements. Pro Service Mechanical recommends checking garage plumbing and any outdoor faucets for proper insulation each fall. - Keep Heat Consistent
Set thermostats to at least 17 °C, even when you’re away. Avoid nighttime setbacks below that level during extreme cold snaps. - Open Cabinets and Let Faucets Drip
Opening sink cabinets allows warm air to circulate around pipes, especially in kitchens and bathrooms along exterior walls. A slight trickle of running water can prevent freezing by keeping flow constant. - Seal Drafts and Gaps
Use caulking or expanding foam around foundation openings and where plumbing penetrates walls.
What to Do if Pipes Freeze
- Turn off your home’s main water supply immediately.
- Open faucets to relieve pressure.
- Apply gentle heat with a hair dryer or space heater (never use an open flame).
- If the pipe has burst, call a licensed plumber immediately.
Pro Service Mechanical offers 24/7 emergency plumbing service in Saskatoon for exactly these situations.
Conclusion
Preventing frozen pipes isn’t complicated—it’s about preparation. A few hours of insulation and routine checks can save you from a major plumbing disaster.
CTA:
Contact Pro Service Mechanical today for a winter plumbing inspection and peace of mind before the next cold snap.
