When winter hits Winnipeg, temperatures can plunge, and extreme cold spells are a regular part of the season. For homeowners, that often means taking extra steps to protect against the risk of frozen pipes. Burst pipes can lead to costly repairs, not to mention the headache of dealing with water damage. Fortunately, with a few simple HVAC adjustments, you can keep your home safe and avoid the nightmare of frozen pipes.
1. Keep Your Thermostat at a Steady Temperature
During the winter, setting your thermostat too low to save on energy costs can backfire if pipes freeze and burst. One of the best ways to avoid this is by maintaining a consistent temperature throughout your home, even when you’re asleep or away for short periods.
Tip: Keep your thermostat set to 13°C to protect pipes from freezing. A steady temperature not only helps protect your pipes but also reduces the strain on your HVAC system by avoiding drastic temperature shifts. This way, your home stays warm, your system runs efficiently, and your pipes stay safe.
2. Don’t Forget to Heat Unused Rooms
It can be tempting to close off heating vents in rooms you don’t use often to save on heating costs, but this can lead to problems if there are pipes running through those areas. Pipes in colder, unused rooms are at a higher risk of freezing if those spaces aren’t heated.
Tip: Keep vents open and doors ajar in all rooms, even those you don’t typically use. Allowing warm air to circulate throughout the house helps prevent cold spots, reducing the likelihood of frozen pipes in tucked-away places like basements or attics.
3. Open Cabinets for Better Air Circulation
Some of the most vulnerable pipes in your home are hidden in cabinets under sinks, especially if they’re along exterior walls where they’re more exposed to the cold. By simply opening these cabinets, you can allow warm air from your home’s heating system to circulate around the pipes, keeping them warmer and safer.
Quick Fix: Before heading to bed or if temperatures are expected to drop, open cabinet doors under kitchen and bathroom sinks. It’s a simple step that can make a big difference in preventing pipes from freezing.
4. Seal Drafts and Insulate Vulnerable Areas
While your HVAC system does the heavy lifting, drafts and poor insulation can undermine its efforts to keep your home warm. Cold air seeping in through gaps and cracks can quickly cool down rooms, increasing the risk of frozen pipes.
DIY Tip: Check around windows, doors, and walls for any drafts, especially in basements, attics, and crawl spaces. Seal gaps with weather stripping or caulking to keep the warm air inside. Additionally, consider adding insulation around exposed pipes, especially in cold areas of your home, for an extra layer of protection.
5. Keep Vents and Registers Clear
Blocked vents and registers can reduce airflow, leading to uneven heating and cold spots where pipes may freeze. Ensure that nothing obstructs the flow of warm air around your home.
Tip: Before winter sets in, quickly sweep your home to check that all vents and registers are free from obstructions. Move furniture, rugs, or curtains that might be blocking them. This small step helps ensure warm air circulates freely, protecting pipes in all areas of your home.
6. Invest in a Programmable Thermostat
A programmable thermostat can be a lifesaver in extreme Winnipeg winters. While maintaining a steady temperature is important, programmable thermostats can help you fine-tune heating schedules without sacrificing consistency, keeping your home warm when needed.
Energy-Saving Tip: Set the thermostat to keep a steady temperature during the coldest times of the day, such as nighttime. This helps prevent temperature drops that can lead to frozen pipes while allowing you to save energy at less vulnerable times.
7. Schedule an HVAC Check-Up Before Winter Hits
One of the best ways to avoid frozen pipes and other winter HVAC issues is to schedule a routine maintenance check with a professional. An HVAC technician can ensure your system is in top shape and address any minor issues that could lead to bigger problems during cold spells.
Pro Tip: A maintenance check can help identify and fix any inefficiencies in your HVAC system, such as worn-out parts or airflow issues. Regular maintenance keeps your system running smoothly and gives you peace of mind that your home will stay warm and safe all winter.
Call to Action: If you haven’t had your HVAC system checked recently, consider booking an appointment with our team. Preventative maintenance now can save you the trouble (and expense) of unexpected repairs later.
8. Take Precautions During Extreme Cold Spells
Winnipeg is no stranger to severe cold snaps, meaning homeowners must be extra vigilant during these periods. During extreme cold, pipes are more vulnerable to freezing even if you follow all the usual precautions.
Extra Tips for Extreme Cold:
- Avoid lowering your thermostat at night during extreme cold spells to ensure consistent heat.
- Double-check that all vents are open and all rooms are heated, including basements and storage areas.
- If you are away during a freezing period, have a friend or neighbour check on your home to ensure everything’s running smoothly.
Protecting Your Home and Staying Warm This Winter
Taking a few simple steps to prepare your HVAC system can help you avoid the hassle and expense of dealing with frozen pipes. By keeping a steady temperature, allowing warm air to circulate, and staying on top of HVAC maintenance, you can keep your home safe and comfortable, even when winter’s chill is at its worst.
Are you ready to winter-proof your home? Contact us today to schedule an HVAC check-up and ensure your system is prepared to keep you warm and your pipes safe all winter long.
