Why Winter Pipe Freezing Is So Common in Orillia — And How to Prevent It

Slow or smelly drains are one of the most common reasons homeowners call us. Orillia homes, especially older builds near the waterfront, often develop drain issues due to aging plumbing, tree roots, or seasonal temperature shifts. Here are the five drain issues we see most often — and what they may be telling you. 1. Slow Drains Usually caused by: Hair buildup Soap scum Grease Food debris If all your drains are slow, that often points to a blockage deeper in the main line. 2. Gurgling Sounds A gurgling drain usually means the plumbing system is struggling for air because of: Partial blockages Vent stack problems Tree root intrusions Ignoring gurgling drains can turn into a full backup. 3. Recurrent Sink Clogs When the same drain keeps clogging, the issue may be with pipe slope, scale buildup, or collapsed drain sections — not just debris. 4. Sewer Smells in the Basement This is a serious red flag. Orillia homes with older clay sewer lines often develop cracks that allow groundwater or soil to seep in. Sewer odours need professional diagnosis immediately. 5. Standing Water in Floor Drains Common in: Basements Laundry rooms Commercial kitchens Restaurants and retail units Standing water usually points to a blockage or failing backwater valve. How We Fix Drain Problems Pro Plumbing Orillia uses: Video inspections Hydro-jetting Drain snaking Sewer diagnostics Backwater valve repair If your drains are acting up, don’t ignore the early signs — they never fix themselves.

Hot water is essential for comfort, hygiene, and daily living. However, most homeowners overlook their water heater until it fails completely. Knowing the warning signs early can help you plan for replacement instead of facing an emergency breakdown. 1. Age of the Water Heater Most traditional tank-style water heaters last 8–12 years. If yours is approaching or past this range, consider scheduling a replacement before leaks or corrosion occur. 2. Rusty or Discoloured Water Rust in your hot water indicates corrosion inside the tank or pipes. This often means the inner lining is failing and the system should be replaced soon. 3. Inconsistent Water Temperature Fluctuating temperatures can signal a failing heating element, sediment buildup, or a damaged thermostat. 4. Strange Noises Popping or rumbling noises are often caused by hardened sediment at the bottom of the tank. This reduces efficiency and can shorten the unit’s lifespan. 5. Water Pooling Around the Base Even small leaks from the base of the tank can lead to significant water damage if left unattended. Why Choose Pro Plumbing Orillia Our technicians install and service both tank and tankless water heaters, ensuring you get the right size and efficiency for your home. We handle installations, replacements, and maintenance with upfront pricing and no surprises. If your hot water system is showing signs of wear, call Pro Plumbing Orillia today at 705-242-5057 for a free replacement quote and expert guidance.

Low water pressure can make showers frustrating and washing dishes inefficient, but it also signals underlying plumbing issues that may worsen if ignored. Here’s how to identify and fix the most common causes of low water pressure in Orillia homes. 1. Sediment Buildup in Pipes Over time, minerals and debris accumulate in older galvanized or copper pipes, narrowing the water flow. Professional pipe flushing or partial replacement may be necessary if buildup is severe. 2. Partially Closed Shut-Off Valves Sometimes, the main water valve or meter valve is not fully open. Check that both are completely turned to the open position. 3. Failing Pressure Regulator Homes equipped with pressure regulators can experience drops in water flow when the device begins to fail. A licensed plumber can test and replace this component. 4. Leaks in the Plumbing System Undetected leaks — even small ones — can cause a noticeable pressure drop. Look for damp walls, puddles near fixtures, or unexplained increases in your water bill. 5. City Water Supply Issues Occasionally, the issue originates from municipal supply maintenance. Pro Plumbing Orillia can help determine if the problem is within your system or outside your property line. Professional Diagnosis and Repair Accurately identifying the cause of low water pressure requires experience and diagnostic tools. Pro Plumbing Orillia uses advanced testing equipment to locate restrictions, leaks, or faulty regulators quickly and effectively.  Call 705-242-5057 for same-day plumbing diagnostics and reliable repairs anywhere in the Orillia region.

Autumn is one of the best times to inspect your plumbing system before the long Ontario winter sets in. Cooler temperatures and increased rainfall can expose weak points in your home’s water and drainage systems. By handling small issues early, you can avoid expensive mid-winter plumbing repairs. 1. Clogged Gutters and Downspouts Fallen leaves can block gutters, leading to water overflow and foundation leaks. Clear debris regularly to ensure proper drainage away from your home. 2. Slow or Clogged Drains Kitchen sinks and bathroom drains often collect grease, soap, and debris over summer months. Avoid pouring fats, oils, and coffee grounds down the drain, and use strainers to catch hair or food particles. 3. Water Heater Maintenance Your water heater works harder in colder months. Flush the tank to remove sediment buildup, check for corrosion, and ensure the temperature is set around 120°F (49°C) for efficiency and safety. 4. Sump Pump Testing Heavy fall rains can overwhelm sump pumps that have gone untested all summer. Pour a bucket of water into the sump pit to confirm it activates properly. 5. Outdoor Hose Bibs and Lines Before freezing weather arrives, disconnect and drain garden hoses and shut off outdoor faucets from the inside. Why Fall Plumbing Maintenance Matters Preventive maintenance reduces the risk of leaks, pipe bursts, and water damage during the harsh winter season. A fall inspection from Pro Plumbing Orillia ensures your system is sealed, insulated, and ready for the months ahead. Schedule your fall plumbing inspection today by calling 705-242-5057 — serving Orillia, Oro-Medonte, and surrounding Simcoe County communities.

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.

Basement flooding is a major issue for many Orillia homeowners, especially in spring when snow melts or after heavy rains.

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