Cold Weather Means Frozen Pipes

Here at Alpine Insurance and Financial we know all about the cold. We’ve been insuring your Alberta homes and businesses for years, so when we see sub-freezing temperatures in the forecast, we know that it is time to start preparing our customers for dealing with the consequences of the frigid cold.

One of the most problematic issues with the cold, and one that we see many claims for, is water damage due to pipes that have frozen or burst. Your Home Insurance policy should cover you for winter-related damage, including ice dams and wind.

While we are here to protect you in the event that you do need to file a claim, we recommend proactivity and prepping your home before the elements have had a chance to wreak havoc.

Keeping your home warm is the first step to preventing frozen pipes. Eighteen degrees Celsius is an adequate temperature for keeping pipes thawed. Remember, the temperature inside your home is significantly warmer than the inside of your walls. If you have an attic or crawlspace, you may want to consider insulating them for further protection from the cold as well.

Another helpful tip is to keep water running through your pipes when the temperatures drop below freezing. You don’t need to keep your faucets turned all the way up; you need only for water to be dripping from both the hot and cold water lines.

You may want to contact a plumber and have them install an emergency pressure release valve, which can help stop frozen pipes from bursting. Or, if you own a home that is currently vacant, you can have said plumber drain your water system – no water, no water damage.

Be aware of the location of your emergency water shut-off valve and where all pipes are located. Every minute water seeps into your home is more money tacked onto the repair bill.

Source – Are You Ready For a Long, Cold, Snowy Winter? More Importantly, Is Your Home Prepared and Winter-Proofed?

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