Home

Key ways to prevent water damage from frozen pipes

frozen red pipe

When the temperature falls to 0º C or below, you can prevent water damage from freezing pipes by taking a few simple steps.

 

  1. Keep the thermostat at 18ºC or above, day and night. Make sure all inside doors are open, so warm air can easily circulate.

  2. Drain and shut off any water supply to the outside. Install frost-proof spigots or protect them from freezing with faucet insulators

  3. Add insulation to outside walls that contain pipes. If you see moisture or mold, or your walls feel cold to the touch, consider reinsulating or using spray foam to add protection.

  4. Use snap-on insulation for pipes in unheated areas. You can also use heated plumbing tape or cable that automatically turns on when temperatures approach freezing.

  5. Install smart technology, such as low temperature sensors, “smart” thermostats, back-up generators, and water leak detection systems.

frozen pipe

If you think your pipes are frozen:

 

  1. Keep the faucet open, with both cold and hot water running, to slowly unfreeze the pipes.

  2. Turn your thermostat up, to increase the warmth of the surrounding air.

  3. Contact a licensed plumber if you are not certain where the freeze is, because you may cause the pipe to burst if you’re not concentrating on the right area.

rusty burst pipe

If a water pipe bursts:

 

  1. Turn off the water leading to the pipe, to prevent additional water from flowing and damaging your home.

  2. Contact a licensed plumber to fix the problem.

     

To learn more visit chubb.com/ca-en/water-defence.

Insights and expertise

We help you stay ahead and informed with these helpful tips and tricks for protecting your home, car, and more.
nature landscape
Home
We make storm recovery a breeze | Chubb
While you can’t control the weather, you can choose a better insurance company. With a Chubb Masterpiece policy, we’ll treat you with empathy and compassion while we protect all the details that make your house your home.
modern designed house
Home
3 things to do before making home improvements
Whether you’re renovating the entire house, updating your kitchen or installing a new home theater, here are three things you’ll want to do before you get started.
hailstorm
Home
Hail 101: Who’s at risk and preventing damage
Did you know? The largest hailstone ever recorded in Canada measured 290 g and fell near Cedoux, Saskatchewan. Find out who's at risk and how to prevent damage.

Have questions?

Contact a broker today.