The Number One Home Maintenance Tip for November in Ontario: Protect Your Pipes from Freezing

As the temperatures in Ontario dip below zero, homeowners know that winter is right around the corner. November is the crucial transition month—a time when preventive maintenance can save you thousands of dollars and countless headaches. And if you only tackle one home maintenance task this month, make it protecting your plumbing from freezing.

Why Frozen Pipes Are Ontario’s Top Winter Threat

When water freezes, it expands. In unprotected pipes, this expansion can cause cracks or even full bursts, releasing gallons of water into your home once things thaw. According to insurance statistics, burst pipes are among the most common and costly winter home insurance claims in Canada—especially in provinces like Ontario where winter temperatures regularly plunge below -20°C.

How to Prevent Frozen Pipes

1. Insulate Exposed Pipes

Focus on unheated areas like basements, garages, crawl spaces, and attics. Foam pipe sleeves or heat tape are inexpensive and easy to install. Even a few minutes of work can protect your plumbing all winter long.

2. Seal Drafts and Leaks

Cold air can sneak into your home through cracks near windows, doors, and foundation openings. Use caulking or weatherstripping to seal gaps—especially near plumbing fixtures.

3. Disconnect and Drain Outdoor Hoses

Leaving a hose connected traps water inside the exterior faucet and pipe, which can freeze and cause internal damage. Disconnect all hoses, drain them, and store them indoors.

4. Keep the Heat On

Even when you’re away, keep your thermostat set to at least 15°C. A small heating bill is far better than the cost of water damage.

5. Let Faucets Drip During Cold Snaps

A slow, steady trickle of water helps relieve pressure inside your pipes and keeps water moving—preventing freezing in extreme cold.

Bonus Tip: Check Your Home’s Shut-Off Valve

If the worst happens and a pipe bursts, knowing exactly where your main water shut-off valve is can prevent catastrophic flooding. Take a few minutes now to locate and test it—it’s a simple step that can make a world of difference.

Wrap-Up: November Is Prep Month

Ontario winters are beautiful but brutal. By taking the time this November to winterize your plumbing, you’ll ensure a warmer, safer, and far less stressful winter season. Consider it an annual tradition—your pipes (and your wallet) will thank you.




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