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Thawing Wisdom- A Guide for Edmonton Homeowners With Frozen Pipes

Chill in the air, frost on the windows, and a surprise – frozen pipes! The Northern lights and winter in Edmonton may be amazing, but when your home’s plumbing starts to play its own icy symphony, it’s time to take action. Do you have a game plan? Do you know how to thaw frozen pipes? Let’s thaw out the mystery together and navigate the chilly waters of home plumbing solutions!

Common Signs of Frozen Pipes

The first step in tackling frozen pipes is recognizing the signs. Recognizing the subtle cues that hint at plumbing troubles is crucial for timely intervention and avoiding potential damage. Here are some common signs of frozen pipes in Edmonton that homeowners should be on the lookout for:

Reduced Water Flow: One of the early signs is a noticeable decrease in water flow from faucets and showerheads. If you suddenly experience weaker water pressure, it could be an indication of frozen pipes.

Strange Noises: Gurgling or clanking sounds coming from the plumbing system can be a signal of trapped air due to frozen pipes. Pay attention to any unusual noises when using water fixtures.

Frost on Exposed Pipes: Inspect visible pipes, especially in areas like basements, crawl spaces, or garages. Frost on the exterior of pipes is a clear sign that they are exposed to freezing temperatures.

Unpleasant Odors: Frozen pipes can sometimes lead to blockages, causing water to back up. This can result in unpleasant smells emanating from drains or faucets due to trapped debris.

Difficulty in Flushing Toilets: If you notice difficulty in flushing toilets or slow drainage in sinks and tubs, it could be an indication of frozen pipes affecting the wastewater flow.

Visible Condensation: Condensation on the exterior of pipes may seem counterintuitive in freezing temperatures, but it can occur when the interior of the pipe is frozen, and the exterior is exposed to warmer air.

Water Temperature Fluctuations: Inconsistent water temperatures, particularly water coming out much colder than usual, can be a sign that pipes are frozen and restricting the flow of hot water.

Peculiar Smells from Faucets: If water from faucets has a strange or different odor, it could be a result of stagnant water due to frozen pipes impeding normal water flow.

Keeping an eye out for these signs can help homeowners identify and address frozen pipes before they lead to more significant issues. If you spot any of these indicators, taking prompt action is crucial to prevent further damage.

How to Detect and Find Frozen Pipes in Your House

Locating exposed pipes in key areas, using a pipe thermometer for temperature assessment, and checking for bulging or frost on the exterior are effective ways to detect and find frozen pipes in your house. Small sections of pipe will thaw fairly quickly, but if you have a larger area or multiple pipes, you may need to call a plumber.

Thawing Frozen Pipes

Prompt action is crucial. Locate the main water supply and turn it off. Open faucets to relieve the pressure, and use a safe heat source for thawing. Waiting for pipes to thaw on their own may lead to further complications. Follow these easy steps to thaw frozen pipes.

1. Identify the Frozen Section

Begin by determining which section of the pipe is frozen. This may be evident from reduced water flow, frost on the exterior, or by following the exposed pipes in colder areas of your home.

2. Turn Off the Water Supply

Locate and turn off the main water supply to prevent further water from entering the frozen pipe. This minimizes the risk of burst pipes when thawing begins.

3. Open Faucets

Open the affected faucets both hot and cold to allow water to flow through the pipes once thawing begins. This relieves pressure in the system.

4. Apply Heat Safely

Safely apply heat to the frozen section. Use a hairdryer, heat lamp, or electric heating pad. Start from the end nearest the faucet and move towards the blockage. Never use an open flame.

5. Use Warm Towels

Wrap warm towels around the frozen pipe. Soak the towels in hot water and replace them as needed. This provides consistent heat to the pipe.

6. Utilize a Space Heater

If the frozen pipe is accessible and there’s enough space, use a space heater to gently warm the area. Keep it a safe distance from flammable materials.

7. Thawing with Hot Water

Carefully pour hot water over rags wrapped around the frozen pipe. Continue until the ice inside the pipe has melted and water flows freely.

8. Check for Thawing

Periodically check the faucets for water flow as you apply heat. Once the water starts flowing steadily, the pipe is thawed. Keep the faucets open for a few minutes to ensure complete thawing.

9. Insulate Pipes

After thawing, consider insulating pipes in vulnerable areas to prevent future freezing. This is especially important for pipes in basements, crawl spaces, and exterior walls.

10. Seek Professional Help if Needed

If you’re unable to locate the frozen section or if the situation is beyond your control, it’s advisable to call a professional plumber for assistance.

Remember, safety is paramount during this process. Avoid using excessive heat, open flames, or tools that can damage the pipes. Thawing should be a gradual process to minimize the risk of pipe bursting.

FAQ

Will Frozen Pipes Thaw on Their Own?

Understanding why waiting might not be the best option and the risks associated with allowing pipes to thaw naturally. While it’s tempting to hope that frozen pipes will thaw as temperatures rise, it’s not a guaranteed solution. The severity of the freeze, the length of exposure, and the insulation around the pipes all play crucial roles in determining whether pipes will naturally thaw.

How Long Can Pipes Be Frozen Before They Bust?

The duration that pipes can remain frozen before the risk of bursting depends on several factors. The severity of the freeze is a crucial factor. In extremely cold temperatures, pipes are more susceptible to freezing quickly. Warmer freezes may allow pipes to withstand the cold for a longer duration.

What Do Plumbers Do to Unfreeze Pipes?

Plumbers employ a range of professional techniques to efficiently and safely unfreeze pipes. We begin by assessing the extent of the frozen pipes and identifying the location of the blockage. Advanced tools, such as infrared thermometers, may be used to pinpoint the frozen pipe.

Methods used frequently include a heat gun, heated blankets, and other devices that heat metal slowly to prevent the pipe from breaking as it thaws out.

Winter plumbing challenges are a part of life in Edmonton, but armed with the right knowledge, you can thaw out the inconvenience. Whether it’s detecting the subtle signs or understanding the do’s and don’ts of thawing, our guide has you covered. Embrace the winter wonderland without letting it freeze your pipes!

Always Plumbing and Heating is a premier plumbing and heating company serving the Edmonton area. If you need help with frozen pipes, we’re just a call away. We’ll use our knowledge and expertise to solve all of your plumbing or heating needs.

Do I Need a Sump Pump?

Depending on where you live, a sump pump might be one of the most integral parts of equipment in your house – but there’s also a chance you’ll never need one at all. Some of you think, ‘Of course! I’d never go more than a few months without checking my sump pump, it’s too important.’ Others, though, say, ‘What on earth is a sump pump?’ If you fall into the second category, there’s a good chance you don’t need one. Unfortunately, Edmonton lies in a relatively flat area, so flooding is a problem; a sump pump is likely already in your home. On the off-chance you don’t have one, though, the pros at Always Plumbing & Heating have provided some guidelines to give you an idea of what you’d need to experience at home to invest in one.

What is a Sump Pump?

A sump pump is pretty self-explanatory: it’s a pump that is installed in the lowest point of your house – usually the basement – and it pumps out any water, sump, that accumulates when there is flooding. Some are activated via a pressure sensor, and others are triggered by a flotation activator. A sump pump uses centrifugal force to create a low-pressure environment to suck water in and force it out through a pipe that dumps it away from your home. A check valve prevents the water from trickling back through the pipe, ensuring it only funnels away from the pump.

How do I know if I need one?

To determine if you need a sump pump or not, you’ll need to figure out if your house is prone to accumulating water. Obviously, if floods are an issue in the area, you will definitely need one – but if you’re situated in an area without that danger, there’s still a chance you could house excess moisture. If there isn’t any standing water, or if your basement is completely dry, you’re probably safe. However, if moisture is present, run a de-humidifier in the basement and check for moisture again a few weeks later. If it’s still present, go ahead and invest in a sump pump.

Types of Sump Pumps

Sump Pumps are divided into two categories: Pedestal and submersible units.

Pedestal sump pumps are installed above ground. They’re easier to install and perform maintenance on than submersible units are – and they’re cheaper! However, they can be affected by the water you’re trying to remove much easier than ones underground can.
Submersible sump pumps can be covered with a lid, effectively making them impenetrable. We’d recommend going with this type, if only because there is a reduced risk of them being rendered inoperable since they are secluded.

Whichever one you choose, purchasing a backup battery-powered sump pump is an excellent idea. In the event your primary unit fails, the backup will keep chugging along and provide a critical contingency plan to keep your basement water-free. You’ll also want to install an alarm on your sump pump that will alert you if it fails – so you can take action before the high water gets too much to handle.

Before flood season hits, give the experts at Always Plumbing & Heating a call at 780-489-8118 (Edmonton) or 587-601-1253 (Fort McMurray) to get your sump pumps upgraded or replaced, or have us come out and take care of every step of the installation process. Our highly qualified technicians are available 24/7 throughout the year to take care of you, and it comes with a 100% Customer Satisfaction Guarantee!

How to Handle a Burst Pipe (in Winter)

Northern Alberta is under an Extreme Cold Warning with wind chill values of -40 to -45 expected to persist into Saturday. This is frozen and burst pipe weather.

We’ve written about how to prevent and thaw frozen pipes, but what happens if it’s too late for that?

Hopefully you can thaw the frozen area or contact a licensed plumber before the pipe bursts and causes expensive property damage. If, however, you do notice a broken or burst pipe, here’s how to handle it.

Burst Pipe Signs

Here are some signs you have a leaking or burst pipe in your home:

Dripping sounds
Puddles of water
Water spots and damage to ceilings and walls
Lack of water pressure
Main water shut-off shows a leak

How to Handle a Burst Pipe

In the event of a burst pipe, be prepared to act fast.

In the event of a leaking, broken, or burst pipe, turn off the main water supply to prevent any further damage. While you can make a temporary repair while you wait for a plumber’s availability, the pipe will have to be replaced as soon as possible.

Turn Off Main Water Shut-Off

To be safe, if you notice a leaking, broken, or burst pipe, turn off the main water shut-off valve. In the event of an emergency, everyone in the household should know where the main water shut-off is located and how to turn it off.

Consult your property inspection report or professional plumber if you don’t know the location of the shut-off valve. Don’t wait until your pipes burst to start looking!

Turn the valve clockwise to turn it off. Keep in mind that you may have to turn the gate valve several turns to shut it off.

Turn Off Electricity If Necessary

If water has already entered your home and is in danger of contacting any electrical equipment, turn off power to that area of the home. Make sure you turn off the water first, then shut off power at the circuit breaker with dry hands and feet.

Contact a Plumber

As soon as you turn off the water supply to prevent any further damage, contact a professional plumber right away. Not all plumbing companies are 24/7, but if you live in the Edmonton or Fort McMurray area, Always Plumbing & Heating is always available.

The sooner you schedule professional plumbing service, the less expensive your costs will be. Your plumber will also help guide you to the right decision concerning the associated water damage. You may need to contact a water damage specialist for severe cases.

Remove as Much Water as You Can

In order to prevent moisture-related problems, such as mold and mildew, clean up as much of the water as you can. Use wet/dry shop vacuums, rags, mops, buckets, whatever you can. Run a dehumidifier if you have one.

Be on the lookout for early signs of frozen pipes, such as reduced water flow and freezing temperatures. Most plumbing ruptures can be prevented.

If you think a pipe may have burst in your Edmonton home, turn off the water supply and contact Always Plumbing and Heating at780-489-8118 (Edmonton) or 587-601-1253 (Fort McMurray).

We provide emergency service 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

Winter Plumbing Tips

How to Find Hidden Water Leaks

Hidden water leaks can cost you a lot of money in your Edmonton home. One of the most common plumbing problems and biggest causes of wasted water in your home are silent and slow leaks in pipes, fixtures and appliances. Because they are silent and slow, they often go undetected. When they go undetected, they can waste thousands of gallons of water per year and often result in considerable damage to the underlying structure of your home. Keep an eye out for these signs of water leaks to determine if you need to hire a plumber to fix those leaking pipes or plumbing fixtures before things get worse.

Look at your water bills.

Chances are, if you have an unusually high spike in your water bill, you may have a water leak somewhere in the house – especially if your water use habits haven’t changed over the past few months. Your water bill should remain within the same range month to month. Remember that some of your pipes may be underground. You may never detect leaks in this part of your system, but you will always pay for them.

Prevalent mold or mildew.

Leaks from pipes can lead to mold growth on non-shower walls. While it’s common to see some mildew in corners of your shower, there shouldn’t be any on surfaces outside of your shower. A leaking pipe provides plenty of moisture for mold to grow. So, the longer it takes you to detect and fix the leak, the easier and faster mold will grow. Even when there isn’t any visible growth, mold creates a musty “old basement” smell that’s hard to miss and shouldn’t be ignored. Mold growth can cause serious health complications, especially for people with sensitivities to allergies or those with asthma.

Peeling or blistering walls.

If you have a leak inside your walls, it can cause wallpaper and paint to blister, bubble or peel. This is usually a sign of a leak that has been slowly growing worse over time. When drywall is exposed to moisture, it becomes soft and begins to bubble, ultimately warping and breaking into pieces. If the leak reaches the ceiling, it causes it to sag and possibly leak some of the water that has accumulated.

Smell from old, accumulated water.

If you have thoroughly cleaned your bathroom and still notice a musty or earthy smell, you may have a hidden leak. The water from the leak doesn’t have a chance to dry and will continue to accumulate over time. The old water mixed with possible mildew or mold will cause that musty smell that won’t seem to go away.

Wet or sagging floors.

Depending on what kind of flooring you have in your bathroom, moisture can make it feel spongy or soft. Tile may lose its grip and become loose, allowing you to easily remove a piece and possibly expose water or moisture underneath it. You will also find a damp subfloor. If your bathroom floor is sinking, buckling or beginning to stain for no other reason, a potential water leak could be the culprit. The water could be from a pipe directly underneath the floor, or it could have traveled there from another area.

Don’t wait to have your pipes checked when you discover these signs of a water leak. Letting a leak go could result in considerable damage that’s expensive to fix. Instead, stop the problem before it gets worse by giving Always Plumbing & Heating call. Our team of specialists is fully equipped to provide your home with the plumbing services necessary to stop leaks and prevent further damage. Call us at 780-489-8118 to schedule an appointment today!

Call Always Plumbing & Heating at 780-489-8118 or contact us online today to discuss your water quality options for your new home.

Sump Pump Maintenance Procedures and Tips

Why should we maintain ourSump Pumps?

Our sump pumps should work efficiently for us and be there for us when we need them. The very last thing we need to happen is for our submersible pump to let us down when we need it the most. If we take the time to look after our sump pumps with a little maintenance then they will be there and ready to work for us when we need them the most.

What maintenance is needed and how often?

The maintenance that should be needed in most cases should be carried out periodically. Typically on a quarterly basis; with special consideration to the wetter months of the year. Ensure we carry out our maintenance prior to then.

For many pumps the maintenance procedures are very similar as well as being relatively simple to carry out. A submersible pump should need around five to ten minutes of your time at most to complete the steps needed.

Sump pumps are generally maintenance free themselves but we will need to look into various things to ensure a long and worry free life with the pump.

A list of the items we need to look to properly maintain our sump pumps are

Screen Debris – Here we need to ensure we clean any screening we have to our pump inlet. This will ensure the pump is able to have full flow going to in as well as ensuring there is no further debris being able to get into the pump and damage it.

Hose Connections – Ensure they are tight and leak free. This will help to reduce any leaks being re-pumped and effectively being pumped around in circles.

Check Valves – Ensure they are both fitted and also working. A check valve is there to stop the water we have just pumped away from returning down the pumping line and filling our sump up again. To check this fill the sump and let the sump pump run. Once the pump shuts off there should not be any water returning down the pumping line to re-fill our sump

Installation – Ensure the sump pump is properly installed and is fixed into your sump so it is not moving around. This could cause further damage if left like this.

Pumping line– Ensure this is leak free and in some cases where necessary ensured the pumping hose/line is protected from the frost. If this line was to freeze then your pump will be rendered useless.

Float switch – Always ensure the float switch is working properly. Ensure you watch the pump both start and stop using the float switch. It is also worth ensuring there isn’t any debris or dirt on or around the float switch to impair the operation of it.

Pump Cleaning Wherever possible it would not harm the pump to fully remove it (using all required safety precautions) and give it a thorough clean down, removing all debris and dirt from all around the pump.

Impeller check – When you have the pump removed it is worth looking at the actual impeller if you can see it. In some cases there could be materials clogged around these or in extreme circumstances wound around the impeller. This will reduce the efficiency and operation of the sump pump. Remove any materials and ensure the impeller is free.

Noisy pump – In the circumstances where your pump has become noisy and you have completed all of the steps above and find your pump is still noisy – it might be the case that your bearings or motor is wearing, or it could be something as simple as needing a flexible hose connection to absorb the vibration being transmitted into the piping. If you are unable to fix the issues by the above steps then you should seek professional advice on how to fix any further issues with your sump pump.

Is your pump in need of attention?

Typical symptoms that your sump pump may need attention would be; noisy pump, not pumping the same volume of water, not switching on with the float, tripping the circuit regularly, overheating.

In the cases where your pump is not pumping the same amount of water, tripping the circuit or overheating you need to give your pump a good overhaul. This may be symptoms your pump or impeller could be blocked causing it to run at a slight temperature or even at a high current rating. In cases like this ensure you have checked all of the above and re tested. If the problems persist you may need to seek professional advice.

What if my Sump pump has stopped working?

A sump pump installed in a basement of a home with a water powered backup system.

If your sump pump has stopped working you may actually find it is the float switch that has malfunctioned. In most cases the float switch is the “moving part” and therefore more susceptible to malfunction. Dependent upon the construction of several models of sump pumps you may also be able to remove and replace the float switch rather than needing to replace the complete pump. It could be a matter of replacing the float switch to have your pump back into working order. If you are unable to do this yourself, then seek professional advice, however bear in mind once you need to pay a professional it could actually be cheaper for you to just get another sump pump.

It may also be a worthwhile expense to have a reserve sump pump or backup sump pump just in case your pump fails you at the worst possible moment. We have reviewed many of the best sump pumps and returned honest and open reviews for you to decide upon the best submersible pump to suit your needs and budget.

Always Plumbing & Heating provides great service 24/7 and our qualified technicians have been nationally certified to wear the Technician Seal of Safety.

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