How to Prevent Frozen Pipes This Winter in York Region

Seasonal Tips

Every winter, our team gets calls from homeowners across Newmarket, Aurora, and the surrounding York Region communities dealing with frozen — and sometimes burst — pipes. Ontario's deep freezes put real stress on plumbing, especially in older homes, garages, and exterior walls where pipes aren't well insulated. The good news: most frozen-pipe emergencies are preventable with a bit of preparation.

Know Where Your Pipes Are Most at Risk

Pipes located in unheated spaces are the most vulnerable — think basements, crawl spaces, attics, garages, and any line that runs along an exterior wall. If you've ever noticed a section of pipe feels noticeably colder than the rest of your plumbing, that's a good sign it needs extra protection before the temperature drops.

Simple Steps That Make a Big Difference

• Insulate exposed pipes. Foam pipe sleeves are inexpensive and easy to install around any pipe running through an unheated area.
• Seal up drafts. Cracks and gaps near where pipes enter your home let cold air straight in — caulk them before winter hits.
• Keep a trickle running. On the coldest nights, letting faucets on exterior walls drip slightly keeps water moving and reduces the chance of a freeze.
• Maintain consistent heat. Don't let your thermostat dip too low overnight, even when you're away — keeping your home above 13°C (55°F) helps protect your pipes.
• Disconnect outdoor hoses. Drain and store garden hoses, and shut off exterior taps before the first hard freeze.

If a Pipe Does Freeze

Shut off the main water supply right away and open the affected faucet to relieve pressure. Gently warm the pipe with a hairdryer or warm towels — never an open flame — starting from the faucet end and working back toward the blockage. If you can't locate the frozen section, or you notice any bulging, cracking, or water where it shouldn't be, stop and call us. A pipe that's already under pressure can burst the moment it thaws, and that's when a small problem turns into significant water damage.

When to Call AquaTec

If you're dealing with no water flow, a suspected freeze, or — worse — a burst pipe, don't wait it out. Our team is available 24/7 across Newmarket, Aurora, Richmond Hill, Markham, Vaughan, and the rest of York Region for exactly these situations. We'll get your water flowing safely again and repair any damage with the same upfront pricing and guaranteed workmanship we bring to every job.