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While Canadian winters offer stunning scenery, they can also put your home’s plumbing at risk. When the temperature falls, water in the pipes can freeze and expand, which may result in cracking or bursting. These plumbing issues often result in expensive repairs and major inconvenience. Fortunately, you can prevent most cold-weather plumbing problems by taking proactive steps before the snow falls. This guide shares practical tips to help homeowners avoid common winter plumbing disasters. From pipe insulation to sump pump maintenance, here’s how to keep your plumbing system running smoothly all season long. 1. Wrap and Protect Exposed Pipes Insulating exposed pipes is one of the most effective strategies to avoid freezing or bursting. Plumbing located in unheated spots like basements, garages, attics, or crawl spaces is particularly at risk during cold weather. Pipe insulation sleeves, heat tape, or foam covers are simple tools that go a long way in protecting your plumbing. Pay special attention to pipes situated along outside walls or in areas prone to drafts. Preventing even one pipe from freezing could save you thousands in emergency repair costs. 2. Shut Off and Drain Outdoor Fixtures Your garden hose and outdoor taps may seem harmless, but they can create major problems in winter. If water remains in exterior faucets or hose bibs, it can freeze and cause interior pipes to rupture. Make sure to disconnect garden hoses ahead of the first frost and empty any leftover water from outdoor taps. If your home has a shutoff valve for external plumbing, turn it off and open the tap to let out any remaining water. Installing frost-free faucets is a smart long-term solution that adds protection for years to come. 3. Check and Test Your Sump Pump Your sump pump protects your basement from flooding due to melting snow or heavy winter rain. To ensure it’s working properly, test it before winter hits. Pour a bucket of water into the sump pit and verify that the pump activates and drains the water quickly. Also, examine the discharge line to confirm it's not blocked or frozen, and that it directs water away from your home. Using a battery backup system is a smart choice, particularly in regions where power outages are common. 4. Seal Gaps Around Pipes and Openings Cold air seeping in through cracks near pipes can cause them to freeze, even if the pipe itself is indoors. Use caulking or spray foam to close up any gaps or cracks in areas like the basement, garage, or utility room. This not only helps safeguard your plumbing from freezing but also boosts energy efficiency, potentially lowering your heating costs. 5. Familiarize Yourself with the Main Water Shutoff Valve If a pipe bursts, quickly shutting off your home's main water supply can greatly minimize the damage. This valve is generally located close to the water meter, often in a basement or utility room. Ensure every adult in your home knows its location and how to use it. In an emergency, turning off the water promptly could make the difference between a small inconvenience and a flooded home. 6. Call Local Plumbers for a Winter Inspection While DIY efforts are helpful, having your plumbing system professionally inspected before winter provides peace of mind. Local plumbers understand regional challenges and can identify issues you might miss like slow drains, worn-out water heaters, or ageing sump pumps. Scheduling a yearly plumbing checkup is a minor expense that can help you avoid major issues in the future. Many companies offer winterization services that include pipe wrapping, leak detection, and outdoor system checks. 7. Flush Your Water Heater With the arrival of winter, your water heater will have to work harder than usual. Flushing the tank helps clear out sediment that builds up over time, which improves efficiency and extends the life of the unit. Make sure the water heater is set to the appropriate temperature—usually around 55°C—to balance comfort, safety, and energy use. If your unit is over 10 years old or shows signs of corrosion, consider consulting a plumber about replacement options before winter sets in. 8. Install Smart Leak Detectors Technology can help homeowners avoid winter plumbing disasters. Leak detection devices are relatively affordable and easy to install near water heaters, sinks, toilets, or sump pumps. These devices alert you via smartphone if a leak is detected. Certain high-tech systems are capable of automatically turning off the water supply, providing extra peace of mind when you're not home. Whether you're on a trip or just at the office, it's comforting to know your property is being looked after. 9. Keep Heat Circulating in the Home Even when you're away, maintain a minimum indoor temperature of at least 12°C to prevent freezing. Keep the cupboard doors beneath sinks open to let warm air move around the pipes, particularly those located along outside walls. If you’ll be away for a long time, consider having a neighbour check in on your house occasionally. Catching a frozen pipe early can make a big difference in preventing a costly repair. Winter brings plenty of challenges, but a burst pipe doesn’t have to be one of them. Implementing a few simple precautions now can help you steer clear of serious plumbing issues in the future. From sealing cracks to checking your sump pump and scheduling a visit from experienced local plumbers, the steps you take today will protect your home all winter long. By preparing your plumbing system for freezing temperatures, you’re not only avoiding emergencies you’re preserving the comfort, safety, and value of your home.

Hey folks, I’m from Pro Plumbing Orillia , and if there’s one question I get asked more than any other, it’s this: “Why is my water pressure so low?” It’s a good question—and one that’s especially common in Orillia homes, both old and new. Low water pressure can be a real pain, whether you’re trying to rinse shampoo out of your hair or just fill the sink to do dishes. I’ll walk you through what’s usually going on, and what you can do about it. First, Check the Obvious Sometimes, it’s just a matter of a clogged faucet aerator. Over time, minerals from Orillia’s hard water build up and block the flow. You can unscrew the little screen at the end of your tap and give it a good rinse. I’ve seen pressure problems vanish in minutes just from that. Old Pipes, Old Problems If you live in an older home—say, built before the 1980s—there’s a good chance your plumbing is galvanized steel. These pipes corrode on the inside over time, shrinking the water pathway like clogged arteries. You might notice good pressure in one part of the house and poor pressure elsewhere. That’s usually a sign your pipes are the issue. In cases like that, it might be time to talk about repiping options. It’s not the cheapest fix, but it sure beats dealing with a burst pipe down the road. Hidden Leaks Can Be Sneaky Another cause I see a lot around here is leaks. If water’s escaping somewhere under the floor or behind a wall, it’s not making it to your taps—and that means low pressure. Keep an eye out for water stains, damp spots, or that musty smell. If your water bill suddenly jumps up, that’s another big clue. Municipal Pressure Drops Sometimes, it’s not even your plumbing—it’s the city’s. Orillia’s water system occasionally has pressure dips, especially during maintenance or flushing. If all your neighbours are experiencing it too, give the city a call or check their website for updates. Pressure Regulator Problems Some homes in Orillia have a water pressure regulator on the main line. If it’s stuck or failing, it could be holding your pressure back. I can test that for you easily with a gauge and make adjustments or replace the regulator if needed. When in Doubt, Call the Pros Look, I know plumbing isn’t the most exciting thing to deal with, but keeping your water flowing strong is important. If you’ve tried the simple stuff and it’s still not right, give me a shout. We’re local, we’re friendly, and we know what Orillia plumbing is all about. You can reach Pro Plumbing Orillia any time for fast, honest service. Whether it’s a small fix or a big job, we’ll get you sorted. Until then, stay dry and stay handy! — a Tech at Pro Plumbing Orillia 

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