Ottawa homeowners often face frozen pipes each year, as the city’s sub-zero temperatures can persist for months. Pipes located in unheated areas such as basements, crawl spaces, attics, or exterior walls are especially vulnerable.
When water freezes in these pipes, it expands, increasing internal pressure and potentially causing cracks or bursts. The result? Sudden leaks, flooding, and extensive water damage can cost thousands to repair.
That’s why taking the time to understand how frozen pipes form and the right steps to address them not only protects your home’s plumbing system but also saves you from the stress and expense of emergency repairs during Ottawa’s harshest season.
What Are Frozen Pipes and Why Do They Happen
In many Ottawa homes, frozen pipes often start as small, unnoticed problems. A slight overnight drop in temperature or a draft creeping through an exterior wall can cause water sitting in the pipe to begin to solidify. Over time, ice forms a blockage that prevents water from flowing, trapping pressure between the frozen section and the nearest faucet. If the pressure continues to build, the pipe can eventually burst, sending gallons of water into your walls, floors, or basement once it thaws.
Older homes with outdated plumbing systems or minimal insulation are also particularly at risk, as metal pipes conduct colder than modern materials.
That’s why understanding where and why freezing occurs is the first step to preventing it. By addressing insulation gaps, sealing air leaks, and ensuring consistent heating throughout your home, you can effectively reduce the risk of frozen pipes before winter takes hold.
How to Fix Frozen Pipes (Step-by-Step Solutions)
If your pipes are frozen, the best thing you can do is act fast. The longer they stay that way, the higher the risk of bursting and causing water damage throughout your home.
1. Identify the Frozen Section
The first sign of a frozen pipe is reduced or no water flow. Start by turning on faucets one at a time. If only one area has low pressure, that’s likely where the blockage is. You may also notice frost or condensation on the pipe’s exterior.
2. Gently Warm the Pipe
Once identified, use a safe and gradual heating method to thaw the frozen area:
- Use a hairdryer on low heat, starting near the faucet and moving toward the frozen section.
- Wrap the pipe in warm towels soaked in hot water.
- Use a space heater in the affected area to increase the ambient temperature.
Never use an open flame or blowtorch, as it can cause the pipe to burst or even start a fire.
3. Open Faucets or Shut Off the Water Supply (If Necessary)
As the pipe begins to thaw, open nearby faucets to let water flow. This relieves built-up pressure and helps flush out any remaining ice or debris. However, if you notice a leak or suspect the pipe has burst, shut off your main water supply immediately before taking any further steps.
4. Call a Licensed Plumber
Sometimes, DIY methods just are not enough, especially if you can’t find the frozen section or if several pipes are affected. In these cases, it’s best to call a licensed plumber who has the right tools and expertise to handle the job safely.
Professional plumbers use specialized thawing equipment and pipe inspection technology to locate blockages, restore water flow, and prevent further damage. Plus, they can assess whether any pipes have cracked or weakened during freezing and recommend the best repair or replacement options to avoid future issues.
How Much Does It Cost to Fix Frozen Pipes in Ottawa?
The cost to fix frozen pipes in Ottawa depends on several factors, including how accessible the pipe is, the extent of the damage, and how long the repair takes.
At Mr. Rooter Plumbing of Ottawa, homeowners can expect to pay between $960 and $1,500, depending on the complexity of the issue and how long it takes to restore water flow fully. Since every home and situation is different, getting a professional estimate upfront is the best way to budget confidently and avoid unexpected costs.
Stay Warm, Stay Leak-Free This Winter
Frozen pipes can turn a peaceful winter day into a plumbing nightmare. But with the right response and the perfect team, you can prevent minor issues from becoming plumbing emergencies.
At Mr. Rooter Plumbing of Ottawa, we don’t just fix frozen pipes but also ensure your entire plumbing system is winter-ready. Our licensed plumbers use advanced tools and proven techniques to thaw, repair, and insulate your pipes for lasting protection.
Get Your Estimate and Protect Your Plumbing Today
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And if you’re ready to book your service, call (613) 746-0000. We’re ready to handle everything from emergency leak repairs to routine maintenance.
