Why Is My Basement Flooding? Common Plumbing Causes in Orillia

When temperatures in Orillia dip well below freezing, frozen pipes become one of the most common — and costly — plumbing emergencies. A single burst pipe can release hundreds of gallons of water, damaging walls, floors, and valuables. Fortunately, homeowners can take simple steps to prevent these issues before they start. Why Pipes Freeze Pipes freeze when the water inside them drops below 0°C, expanding as it turns to ice. The pressure from this expansion often causes pipes to burst. Areas most at risk include: Unheated basements or crawl spaces Exterior walls and garages Attics or under-insulated rooms Outdoor taps and hoses How to Protect Your Plumbing System Insulate exposed pipes. Use foam pipe sleeves or heating tape in basements, crawl spaces, and along exterior walls. Seal air leaks. Cold drafts entering through cracks or openings can quickly freeze nearby pipes. Disconnect outdoor hoses. Shut off and drain exterior faucets before temperatures drop. Keep a trickle of water running. During severe cold snaps, let faucets drip slightly to prevent freezing. Maintain consistent indoor heat. Keep the home temperature above 15°C, even when away. If Your Pipes Freeze Do not attempt to thaw pipes with an open flame or torch. Instead: Turn off the main water supply. Open the affected faucet to relieve pressure. Use a space heater or hair dryer to warm the pipe slowly. Call Pro Plumbing Orillia for emergency service if you cannot locate or safely thaw the frozen section. Local Expertise You Can Count On At Pro Plumbing Orillia , our licensed plumbers are trained to handle frozen pipes and winter plumbing emergencies throughout Orillia, Severn, and Simcoe County.  Call 705-999-1221 for fast, professional assistance and winterization services.

If you suspect a leak, don’t wait.

In Orillia, the city may even offer rebates for installing one.

They’re great for small homes and cottages around the lake where space is limited.

They also pose a risk to pets, kids, and the environment. Instead, try a plunger or natural alternatives like baking soda and vinegar.

Orillia has fairly hard water, which means sediment builds up at the bottom of your water heater tank over time.

If your sink or tub is draining slowly, it’s likely a build-up of grease, soap, hair, or food waste. Orillia’s older drainage systems are more prone to clogs, especially in homes with mature trees (tree roots love pipes!). DIY drain cleaners can sometimes help, but they often push the clog further down or damage your pipes. If you’ve tried a plunger or baking soda and vinegar with no luck, it’s time to bring in a pro. Our drain cleaning tools at Pro Plumbing Orillia can clear out even the toughest blockages and keep your water flowing freely. Here's a video that may help: 

Yes, frozen pipes are a frequent issue during Orillia’s cold winters. When water inside your pipes freezes, it expands and can cause the pipe to burst—leading to costly water damage. To prevent this, make sure your pipes are properly insulated, especially those near exterior walls or in unheated areas like basements and garages. Keep cabinet doors open during cold snaps to let warm air in, and let a small trickle of water run overnight to keep things moving. If your pipes are frozen, don’t use a torch. Call the experts at Pro Plumbing Orillia . We’ll safely thaw your pipes and check for any hidden damage. Here's a video with more info: 

Low water pressure is a common issue in many Orillia homes, especially older properties.