How do I stop my pipes from freezing overnight?

Turn up your heat and let faucets drip slightly - these are your two most effective immediate actions to prevent frozen pipes tonight. Even a small trickle of moving water makes it much harder for pipes to freeze.

Temperature management is critical for Ottawa's winter conditions. Keep your thermostat at least 15°C (60°F) even when you're away, and never let it drop below 13°C (55°F). Open cabinet doors under sinks to let warm air circulate around pipes, especially those on exterior walls. If you have a basement, ensure it's adequately heated - many Ottawa homes lose pipes in unheated basements during cold snaps.

Focus on vulnerable areas where pipes are most likely to freeze. Exterior walls, crawl spaces, unheated garages, and areas near foundation walls are prime trouble spots. Wrap exposed pipes with foam insulation or even towels as a temporary measure. For pipes in cabinets, remove stored items so warm air can reach them. If you have a sump pump, ensure that area stays warm too.

Water movement prevents freezing, so let cold water drip from faucets connected to pipes running through unheated areas. You don't need a heavy flow - just enough to keep water moving. This is especially important for pipes on north-facing walls or in areas that don't get much heat circulation.

Ottawa's climate requires extra precaution during extreme cold warnings. Disconnect and drain garden hoses, and shut off exterior water valves if possible. If your home has had freezing issues before, consider having a licensed plumber install heat tape or improve insulation around problem pipes before the next cold snap.

For immediate help with frozen pipes or to discuss permanent solutions like pipe insulation upgrades, Ottawa Pro Plumbing offers emergency service throughout Ottawa's winter months.