What plumbing maintenance should I do before winter in Ottawa?

Winterizing your plumbing is essential in Ottawa's harsh climate to prevent costly freeze damage. Start these preparations in late October or early November before temperatures consistently drop below freezing.

Outdoor plumbing protection is your first priority. Shut off water to exterior hose bibs and drain all water from the lines - even a small amount of trapped water can cause pipes to burst when it freezes. Remove and store garden hoses indoors, and consider installing frost-proof hose bibs if you have older fixtures. If you have an irrigation system, have it professionally blown out and winterized.

Indoor pipe insulation prevents freezing in vulnerable areas like crawl spaces, basements, and exterior walls. Wrap exposed pipes with foam insulation sleeves, paying special attention to pipes near exterior walls, in unheated garages, or in cold basements. Seal air leaks around pipes where they enter your home - cold air infiltration is often the culprit in pipe freezing.

Water heater maintenance becomes more critical in winter when the unit works harder. Flush your tank water heater to remove sediment buildup, check the temperature setting (120°F is optimal), and test the pressure relief valve. For tankless units, ensure proper venting and consider a maintenance service call. In Ottawa's climate, a well-maintained water heater is crucial since repairs in winter can leave you without hot water for days.

Sump pump preparation is vital given Ottawa's freeze-thaw cycles. Test your sump pump by pouring water into the pit - it should activate and pump water out efficiently. Check that the discharge line won't freeze (consider a heated discharge line if needed), and ensure you have backup power options during winter storms.

Additional winter prep includes checking for drafts around plumbing fixtures, knowing where your main water shutoff is located, and keeping your home heated to at least 15°C even when away. Consider having your main sewer line inspected if you've had issues - frozen ground can exacerbate existing problems.

For comprehensive winter plumbing preparation or if you discover issues during your inspection, Ottawa Pro Plumbing offers pre-winter maintenance services to ensure your plumbing system is ready for Ottawa's challenging winter conditions.

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