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10 Reasons Why Your Water Is Suddenly Too Hot

Is your tap water suddenly scalding hot when it’s normally a usable temperature? When you wash your hands or rinse your dishes, are you constantly burning yourself?

Having water that is suddenly way too hot can be a shock — and it can really burn you. It can also mess with your family’s routine of washing and cleaning. It’s dangerous and frustrating.

If the water in your home is suddenly too hot, there are a handful of possible causes. In this blog post, we break down what might be happening and how you can get your water temperature back to normal.

Here are 10 reasons why your water might be suddenly way too hot.

Don’t want to read, just want solutions? Our Calgary Plumbers will quickly diagnose and fix your hot water woes.

1. Thermostat Malfunction

Your water heater’s thermostat controls the temperature of the water throughout your house. If it’s set too high or not working correctly, your hot water can get dangerously hot. A thermostat on the fritz might cause your heater to overheat water, making it too hot.

2. Sediment Build-Up

Over time, minerals like calcium and magnesium can build up in your hot water tank, especially if you live in an area with hard water. This mineral buildup can actually cover the heating element, causing it to overheat your water.

3. Broken Mixing Valve

Your mixing valve blends hot and cold water to keep the temperature in a safe range. If it’s not working correctly, it can cause your hot water to be hotter than it should be.

4. Faulty Water Heater Element

In electric water heaters, a heating element that’s faulty can stay on longer than it’s supposed to, heating your water way beyond what’s normal.

5. Incorrect Thermostat Setting

It could be that your water heater thermostat is simply set too high. Most homes and buildings are fine with a setting somewhere between 49°C (120°F) and 60°C (140°F). If yours is set higher, try turning it down a notch.

6. Pressure Relief Valve Failure

The pressure relief valve is a safety device on your water heater that lets out extra pressure from the hot water tank. If it’s not working properly, pressure can build up over time and cause your water to overheat.

7. Water Heater Size Mismatch

If your water heater is too small for the amount of hot water your house uses, it might be overworked, causing your water to be too hot. This can especially happen at times when your family uses a lot of hot water.

8. Cross-Connection Issues

Cross-connections between hot and cold water lines can cause hot water to come out much hotter than it should. Unless you have plumbing skills, you probably need a professional to diagnose and fix this issue.

9. Overuse of Hot Water

If your family uses a lot of hot water throughout the day, your water heater is probably constantly running, which can cause your water to overheat. This can happen especially with older water heaters and ones that aren’t big enough for the house.

10. Old or Failing Water Heater

An older water heater nearing the end of its lifespan can start acting out of whack, like overheating your water despite your thermostat settings. If your heater is getting up there in age, this could be a sign it’s time to replace it.

Final Thoughts

If your tap water is suddenly way too hot, don’t wait. Have a professional fix your hot water issues. Hot water can cause bad burns, especially if you have kids or elderly in the house. No matter what the cause, it’s important to get on top of it and keep your water temperature safe and comfortable.

Get Hot Water Help

Common Causes of a Leaking Shut Off Valve

Water Shut Off Valve Leaking When Open: Causes and Fixes

Your water shut-off valve is an important part of your plumbing system. This valve controls the flow of water to your sinks, toilets, and appliances. If you’ve noticed that yours leaks when it’s open, ignoring it is a bad idea. A leaky shut off valve can cause water damage in your home and hike up your water bill.

Knowing the most common causes and how to fix them is a great first step. In this blog post, we go over what the reasons might be, and what you can do about it.

Don’t want to read, just want solutions? Our expert plumbers have are here to support you. We have over 40 years of plumbing experience and will quickly diagnose and solve your leaky valve woes.

Get Water Valve Support

Let’s take a look at the main offenders for leaking valves:

1. Worn Out Packing Nut

The packing nut is a small but mighty piece of the shut-off valve. The packing nut’s job is to stop water from leaking around the valve stem. Over time, the packing nut can loosen, or the material inside it can wear out, and it will leak.

2. Damaged Valve Washer

Inside the valve, there’s a small rubber washer that helps seal the valve tightly when it’s closed. If this washer starts getting worn out, water can leak when the valve is open.

3. Corroded Valve Body

Corrosion is common in valves, especially in old homes with older plumbing systems. The body of the valve can rust over time, causing little cracks that let water trickle through when the valve is open.

4. Improper Installation

It could be that your valve wasn’t installed correctly. If it wasn’t seated or tightened properly when it was put in, this could be why it’s leaking.

How to Fix a Leaking Water Shut-Off Valve

1. Tighten the Packing Nut

If the leak is around the valve stem, try tightening the packing nut. Use a wrench to turn the nut clockwise a little bit. Don’t over-tighten! You can damage the valve with too much force.

2. Replace the Packing Material

If tightening the packing nut doesn’t work, the packing material inside might need to be replaced. First, shut off the main water supply. Then, remove the old packing material and replace it with new packing string or tape.

3. Replace the Washer

If the valve is leaking from the outlet, the washer inside might be the problem. You’ll need to take the valve apart to get to the washer and replace it. This is a simple job if you’re comfortable with plumbing, but if not, a plumber can do it for you.

4. Replace the Valve

If the leaking shut off valve is rusted or leaks even after repairs, you might just need to replace the whole valve. This involves turning off the main water supply, cutting out the old valve, and installing a new one. Some will be comfortable doing it themselves, but for most, it’s better to hire a professional to make sure it’s done right.

When to Call a Professional

While a few kinds of minor leaks can be fixed with a quick DIY repair, most are best left to a professional. If you have an old shut off valve, serious corrosion, or if the valve is hard to reach, calling in a licensed plumber can save you time and headaches.

Final Thoughts

If your water shut-off valve is leaking, get it fixed right away. For most people, calling in a professional is the most convenient and best way to go. You’ll know you won’t have to worry about your valve for many years to come with a professional replacement. Son-Rise Plumbing is able to quickly and easily replace any worn-out valves— so give us a call and we’ll ensure you will no longer have to worry about leaky, dripping valves.

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Tankless Water Heater vs Hot Water Tank – Alberta Guide

Hot Water Tanks — An Alberta Classic

If you grew up in Alberta, your family probably had a large hot water tank in the basement. You might still have one in your home now, especially if you live in a larger home. The tank was likely massive, expensive to run, and potentially temperamental.

While tank water heaters are still common, there has been a shift towards tankless water heaters, with their reputation for lower energy bills and less need for space. So why would someone switch? What about staying with a tank-style, should some houses stay the same?

If you’re in the market for a new hot water system for your Calgary home, it’s a good idea to understand the different types of water heaters available. In this guide, we’ll compare tankless water heaters and traditional hot water tanks, helping you understand their differences, benefits, and drawbacks.

By the end, you’ll have a better idea of which system suits your home and needs. The answer is different from home to home, so read on and decide for yourself.

Still unsure after reading? Our plumbing experts here at Son-Rise Plumbing would be happy to advise you.

Tank vs. Tankless Guide:

1: Overview of Water Heating Systems
2: Cost Comparison
3: Energy Efficiency
4: Space and Installation
5: Maintenance and Lifespan
6: Hot Water Supply
7: Environmental Impact
What Is The Best Water Heater?

1: Overview of Water Heating Systems

Tankless Water Heaters

Tankless water heaters, also known as on-demand water heaters or instantaneous water heaters, heat water only when you need it. The second you turn on the hot water tap, cold water travels into the water heater, where it is heated by a gas burner or electric element. Water is heated as needed without ever being stored in a large hot water tank.

Hot Water Tanks

Traditional hot water tanks store and preheat a large volume of water in a tank. The water is kept hot and ready for use, but once it’s all used up, there can be a wait while the tank refills and heats another tank of water. The tank capacity you would choose depends on the amount of people in your house and how much hot water you go through every day.

2: Cost Comparison Of Water Heaters

Initial Cost Comparison

Tankless water heaters have a higher upfront cost compared to hot water tanks. The water heater units are more expensive. Installing them usually costs more as well. Installation will probably require some upgrades to your plumbing system, natural gas lines, and electrical systems. They usually require new venting pipes too. They need to be installed to code, and these initial costs can add up.

Storage tank water heaters cost less to buy. Larger capacity tanks or ones with energy efficiency upgrades can cost a little more. Installing a tank water heater is usually pretty straightforward especially if it’s a replacement and all of the hookups are already there.

Long-term Cost Analysis

Tankless water heaters use less energy each month as they aren’t constantly heating a stored tank of hot water. There’s also less heat loss. That efficiency translates to lower utility bills each month, which adds up long-term. Tankless heaters also have lower maintenance needs and a longer lifespan. So while they cost quite a bit more to install, those costs can be justified with the longer-term efficiency and savings down the road.

Storage tank water heaters cost more to run each month, more to maintain, and need to be replaced more often.

Winner: Hot Water Tank

Installing a hot water tank will definitely be easier on your bank account upfront.

3: Water Heater Energy Efficiency

Tankless water heaters are more energy-efficient. They aren’t continually heating a tank of water. There’s less heat loss. They can be up to 34% more energy-efficient than traditional tank heaters. By heating water only when you need it, an ENERGY STAR certified gas heated tankless water heater can save a family of four $1,800 over its lifetime on utility bills. It just makes sense – keeping water hot until you need it costs energy, and you have to pay for it.

Hot water tanks are less energy-efficient with their constant heating and reheating of stored water. Standby heat loss also contributes to higher energy bills.

Winner: Tankless Water Heater

Tankless water heaters are more energy efficient, and great for both the environment and your monthly utility bill.

4: Space and Installation

Tankless water heaters are designed to be compact and mounted on the wall with no large tank taking up space. This is a big advantage if you live in a condo, a smaller home, or a home without a basement. Installing a tankless water heater is more complex and usually requires some upgrades to your existing plumbing, natural gas, and electrical systems. Gas line upgrades, new venting pipes, upgrades to your electrical system and changes to your water lines could all be required to have your install up to code.

Hot water tanks require space for the large tank itself and for installation and maintenance access. Most people install them in the basement. Tank heaters are usually easier and less expensive to install. If you’re replacing a hot water tank, all of the electrical components will already be there, making it fairly straightforward for any plumber.

Winner: Tankless Water Heater

The space saving compact design, combined with being wall mounted, gives the edge to tankless heaters, despite the often more complex installations.

5: Maintenance and Lifespan

Tankless water heaters and traditional storage tank water heaters have different maintenance needs and lifespans.

Tankless water heaters need to be descaled and flushed to prevent mineral buildup. Doing this every year or every second year should be enough, depending on the hardness of your water. The inlet filter and air filter both also need to be cleaned regularly.

Tankless water heaters generally need fewer repairs over their lifespan with less wear and tear compared to tank systems that are continually in use. However, when repairs are needed, they can be more expensive and can include replacing heating elements and sensors.

Hot water tanks should be flushed once a year to remove sediment buildup, but generally, maintenance is simpler than for tankless systems. The temperature and pressure relief valve should also be checked to make sure it’s working correctly. If your hot water tank develops a leak, it can be quite expensive to fix.

Tank heaters need more frequent repairs because of their constant operation. Common repairs include replacing the heat exchanger, heating elements, thermostats, and addressing leaks. The more frequent need for repairs can add up over the lifespan of the unit.

While tankless water heaters can last up to 20 years or more with proper maintenance, hot water tanks typically need to be replaced after 10-15 years.

Winner: Tankless Water Heater

While both require regular maintenance, the more frequent repairs of tank heaters along with needing to be replaced more often give the slight edge to tankless water heaters here.

6: Hot Water Supply

Tankless water heaters deliver a constant supply of hot water at the moment you need it. You won’t run out of hot water and need to wait for another tank to heat water up. That said, tankless heaters can be less efficient during those extreme Alberta cold snaps. Also, the flow rate has a limit and hot water flow may not be enough in a larger household when everyone is running hot water at once.

Hot water tanks have a large enough supply of hot water to have multiple taps and showers going at once without reducing the flow rate. This is great for large families that are all using hot water at once. However, once that hot water is gone, you’ll need to wait for another tank to be filled and heated.

Winner: Depends on household needs

For homes or apartments with only one or two people, a tankless water heater will meet your hot water demands and you’ll never run out of hot water. If you have a large family and use a lot of hot water at certain times, a storage tank water heater might be the better option.

7: Environmental Impact

Tankless water heaters have a lower environmental impact with higher energy efficiency ratings and reduced greenhouse gas emissions.
Hot water tanks continuously burn energy even when not in use.

Winner: Tankless Water Heater

If eco-friendly hot water is important, a tankless water heater is the way to go.

What Is The Best Water Heater?

The best water heater really depends on your house, family size, and preferences. Although it would be easier to pick one and tell you, we’d rather you make the decision that is right for you and your home.

For homes with lower hot water demands and apartments with limited space, a tankless water heater is a great option. A tankless heater will lower your energy bills and is the better choice for the environment.

On the other hand, if you have a large family and use a lot of hot water all at once, a traditional tank heater may be the better option. Hot water tanks are also more affordable upfront.

If you still aren’t sure, discussing your home and hot water needs with a licensed expert can help you make the best choice.

Call Son-Rise Plumbing Today!

Whether you need tankless or storage tank water heaters, one of our water heating professionals would love to talk to you.

Our team of licensed technicians has years of experience repairing, replacing, and installing water heaters in every type of home.

Call us at 403-274-1166 and have a no-obligation chat to go over your situation. Or get a quote for any type of hot water heater installation or service.

Pros and Cons of a Tankless Water Heater in Alberta

If you’ve been thinking about upgrading your home’s water heating system in Calgary, you’ve probably heard of tankless water heaters.

Tankless water heaters, usually known as just water heaters these days, heat water on demand instead of storing hot water in a large tank. Many Albertans have made the investment with the promise of never running out of hot water and lower energy bills.

You might be wondering if installing a tankless heater is the right fit for you. In this post, we’ll go over the pros and cons of switching to a tankless water heater and help you make the best decision for your home.

What is a Tankless Water Heater?

Before buying, it’s important to understand the different types of water heaters.

Tankless water heaters, also known as on-demand heaters, instantaneous heaters, and continuous flow water heaters, heat water directly as you need it. When you turn on the hot water tap, cold water travels through a pipe into the water heater. Heating is done by either a gas burner or an electric element. Water is only heated as needed without being stored in a large hot water tank.

The old-style traditional water heaters vs. a tankless unit store and continuously heat a large tank of water. Once the hot water runs out, you’re left with cold water until another tank of hot water is heated. Bad news if you need hot water for an extended period of time.

These days, when people say “water heaters”, they’re usually referring to tankless water heaters.

Tankless Water Heater Pros

1. Hot Water on Demand

Tankless water heaters deliver a continual, constant supply of hot water at the moment you need it. No more waiting for a giant water tank to have enough hot water again before you can take a shower after your kids use up all the hot water.

2. Energy Efficiency

Tankless water heaters are more energy efficient than tank water heaters. An ENERGY STAR certified tankless system uses 30% less energy, on average, than a storage tank type (source: Natural Resources Canada). They aren’t storing and constantly heating a large tank of hot water like a tank water heater. There’s less heat loss as well. Water is only heated when you need it, lowering your energy bills.

A typical natural gas tankless water heater has an average energy factor of 0.85, while a typical natural gas tank water heater has an average energy factor of 0.62 (source: Natural Resources Canada). Energy factor (EF) is used to rate the efficiency of water heaters.

3. Lower Utility Bills

Lower energy use means lower utility bills. With Alberta utility bills increasing, that can translate to big savings on your monthly budget.

4. Longer Lifespan

Tankless heaters have an average lifespan of 20-30 years. Compare that with traditional tank water heaters, which typically last 10-15 years. That’s a lifespan up to twice as long with regular flushing and proper maintenance.

5. Space-Saving Design

Tankless water heaters have a compact design with no large tank taking up space and are usually wall-mounted. This is a huge plus for smaller homes or condos that don’t have huge basements.

6. Government Rebates and Programs

The City of Calgary is participating in the Alberta Municipalities Clean Energy Improvement Program which lets you finance the entire cost of upgrading to a tankless water heater. You repay it through your regular property tax bill, with financing tied to the property, not the property owner.

As for government rebates, while it’s possible more will be introduced in the future, for the moment all rebates are over.
The Government of Alberta did launch a rebate program for Alberta homeowners who upgraded to tankless water heaters, but this program was scrapped along with the Energy Efficiency Alberta website.

7. Smart Technology

Modern tankless water heaters usually have smart features like WiFi compatibility, letting you to monitor and change settings from an app on your phone.
They’re also compatible with Alexa and Google Home, letting you use voice commands to set temperatures, turn your water heater off or on, track your hot water usage statistics in real-time, and receive maintenance alerts.

Tankless Water Heater Cons

1. Higher Upfront Costs

The upfront purchase and installation costs for tankless water heaters are higher than installing a traditional tank unit. Tankless water heaters are more advanced, cost more to make, and are more complex to install. It’s definitely an investment, but the long-term energy savings and convenience upside usually justify the initial cost.

2. Additional Installation Requirements

Installing a tankless water heater usually requires some upgrades to your existing plumbing, gas, and electrical systems. It could mean gas line upgrades, installing new venting pipes, upgrading your home’s electrical system to handle more capacity, and changes to your water lines.

3. Maintenance Needs

Annual maintenance is needed to prevent sediment buildup, keep your water heater running efficiently, and prolong its lifespan.

4. Performance in Cold Climates

Calgary’s sometimes harsh winters can affect the efficiency of tankless water heaters. Extremely cold water requires more energy to heat, meaning water heaters can be less efficient during those cold snaps.

Is a Tankless Water Heater Right for You?

For homes with only a couple people and lower hot water demands, a tankless water heater is ideal. They’re also a great choice for small houses or apartments with limited space. If your priority is lowering your energy bills, or if you travel a lot and aren’t home that often, then a new tankless water heater is the more economical choice.
On the other hand, if you have a large family and use a lot of hot water, a single tankless unit might not be able to keep up. In that case, tank style water heaters or several tankless units are a better option. Some older homes may also not be worth the electrical and plumbing upgrading necessary to install a tankless water heater.
If you still aren’t sure, discuss your situation with a professional that can help you make the best choice for your home.

Tankless Water Heater Installation With Son-Rise Plumbing

If you’re ready to make the switch to a tankless water heater, we’re here to help. Our team of licensed professionals has years of experience repairing, replacing, and installing electric or gas tankless water heaters in every type of home.

Contact us to request a quote or call 403-274-1166 and talk to one of our experts to learn more about our tankless water heater options.

Everything You Need to Know About Sump Pumps

If you live in an area that has a history of flooding or in a house with a basement that sometimes takes on water, a sump pump is an indispensable tool. Some houses are built with the foundation at or below the water table much of the year, and others can take on water seasonally.

Understanding how sump pumps work and choosing the right one can mean the difference between a relatively dry basement and taking on water damage. In this article, we’re here to make sure you know everything you need to make an informed decision buying and installing a sump pump.

What is a Sump Pump?

Sump pumps are designed to remove water from a sump pit (or sump basin), usually found at the lowest point of a house’s basement. Common sump pumps detect water levels through a float switch and activate when water reaches a certain level.

The primary sump pump then pumps water out of the basement and away from the home’s foundation. This prevents flooding and water damage. It also preventatively maintains the structural integrity of your house and keeps it free of other problems such as mold.

Types of Sump Pumps

There are two types: pedestal sump pump and submersible sump pump.

Pedestal Sump Pumps stand upright and have the motor mounted above the sump and out of the water. This design makes them easier to maintain as the motor is not submerged.
Submersible Sump Pumps are mounted inside the sump, are waterproof and are submerged anytime your house takes on water.

Pedestal pumps tend to last longer, while submersible pumps are better suited for homes that require heavy-duty water pumping.

The choice between a submersible pump and a pedestal pump will depend on the amount of water your house takes in and your preferences as a homeowner.

Key Features to Consider When Choosing a Sump Pump

1. Horsepower: How much horsepower your pump needs really depends on how much water your basement floor is likely to take on. You can predict this through knowing the home’s history, the water table it sits in, and the amount of rainfall your area gets every year.

A pump with more horsepower will be able to move more water faster, which can be important if you live in an area that experienced flooding in the past. A sump pump with lower horsepower may be fine for situations where your basement takes on smaller amounts of water less often.

2. Home Size: The size of your home can also be a factor. Larger homes, with more surface area, can have higher amounts of water collecting around the foundation during storms.

If you have a bigger house, you might need a sump pump that can handle more water at certain times of the year. Small to medium-sized homes might be fine with lower-capacity sump pumps. You’ll want to choose one up to the job and avoid overworking the pump.

3. Cast Iron vs. Plastic: Cast iron sump pumps tend to last longer. Cast iron can dissipate heat better than plastic, which can be a factor in the life of a sump pump. Plastic ones are both lighter and less expensive but will wear out quicker.

4. Battery Backup Sump Pumps: Power outages aren’t uncommon with heavy storms. A battery backup sump pump can protect you against water damage when the power goes out. If that happens, the battery backup pump kicks in automatically, continuing to work while the lights are out.

5. Wi-Fi Capabilities: Some sump pumps come with Wi-Fi capabilities, allowing you to monitor operation remotely. This can be useful for property managers or homeowners away from home.

With WiFi connectivity, you can get real-time alerts on your smartphone and know the status and performance of your sump pump wherever you are.

How Long Do Sump Pumps Last?

A well-maintained and installed sump pump can be expected to last around 10 years. The lifespan can vary based on how often it gets used, the volume of water it needs to handle, and how dirty your floodwater is. Investing in a high-quality pump and proper installation are important steps in getting the longest service life possible.

Regular maintenance is also important. Inspect and check both your pump and the pit for debris, check the operation of the float switch, and make sure the discharge line is clear.

For clogs, check the pump’s inlet screen for debris that might be blocking the flow of water. This screen, usually at the bottom of the pump, can get clogged. Check the discharge pipe and vent hole for blockages. If your pump has a check valve, make sure it isn’t stuck, as this can prevent water from flowing out of the system.

Motor failures can be more complex and will require checking electrical components. If the pump is receiving power but not working, check that the float switch isn’t stuck or malfunctioning. For submersible pumps, water inside the housing probably means a seal failure, which can lead to motor damage. If you’re not comfortable working with electrical components or if the pump continues to fail after checking these areas, it may be time to consult a professional about a sump pump repair or replacement.

Best Sump Pump Brands In Alberta

Choosing a trusted and quality sump pump brand is your first step. Among the best sump pumps available here are three brands we recommend.

Titan Sump Pumps

Titan Sump Pumps are designed for quick and simple installation, easy maintenance, and smooth operation. They offer versatility and performance, with six submersible models, one column sump pump, and one package system. All pumps come with a two-year guarantee.

Titan models are crafted from high-quality stainless steel and cast iron. Also coming with features like automatic operation, adjustable starting heights, and thermal overload protection, Titan Sump Pumps are a dependable solution.

Pentair Myers Cast Iron Sump Pumps

Pentair Myers pumps are also constructed from durable cast iron and engineered for longevity with a stainless steel motor cover.
These sump pumps are a great solution for managing water in your basement. Other features include a single-row ball-bearing construction for long life and multiple piggy-back switch options for easy maintenance and replacement.

Liberty Sump Pumps

Known for their reliability and performance, Liberty’s range has models for many different needs. Like the other two, Liberty pumps are engineered to last and deliver superior performance.
They come built with automatic float switches and energy-efficient motors. In our experience, Liberty Sump Pumps are a great choice for homeowners seeking reliable flood protection and water management solutions.

Get A Sump Pump Installed With Son-Rise Plumbing

Keeping your home safe from water damage starts with the right sump pump. For those looking to install or upgrade, or if you need to talk to an expert about your situation, Son-Rise Plumbing offers consultation and installation services tailored to your needs.

Request a no-pressure Quote or Consultation today!

Everything You Need to Know About Frozen Pipes in Calgary

Calgary’s picturesque winters come with a unique challenge for homeowners – the menace of frozen pipes. As temperatures in Calgary plunge, the risk of pipes succumbing to the cold increases, potentially leading to plumbing disasters.

1: Identifying Frozen Pipes

Recognizing the early signs of frozen pipes is crucial for homeowners to prevent potential plumbing catastrophes. One of the initial indicators is a noticeable drop in water pressure. As temperatures plummet, water inside the pipes begins to freeze, causing it to expand. This expansion can lead to a reduction in the available space for water to flow, resulting in decreased water pressure in faucets and fixtures throughout the house. In more severe cases, ice can completely obstruct the passage of water, leaving taps dry and household activities hampered.

Frozen pipes can have a huge impact on a home’s plumbing system. The expansion of water as it freezes exerts significant pressure on the walls of the pipes. If this pressure builds up to a point where the pipe’s structural integrity is compromised, it can lead to a burst pipe. The aftermath of a burst pipe includes water damage, potential flooding, and expensive repairs.

Residents looking to prevent frozen pipes can look at the City of Calgary’s Frozen Pipes Prevention Program. This initiative provides valuable resources and information to help homeowners identify signs of frozen pipes and take preventive measures. The program underscores the significance of proactive measures, urging residents to stay vigilant, particularly during the winter months, and take steps to protect their plumbing systems from the challenges posed by our frigid climate. A qualified Calgary plumber is an invaluable asset when identifying and repairing frozen pipes.

2: Causes and Prevention of Frozen Pipes

Calgary’s winter brings with it a unique set of challenges for homeowners, and understanding the causes of frozen pipes is key to implementing effective preventive measures.

Low Temperatures: The primary factor leading to frozen pipes is, unsurprisingly, the extreme cold temperatures that characterize Calgary’s winter. When the mercury drops significantly, especially during prolonged cold spells, the water inside pipes can freeze, creating a potential hazard. Pipes located in unheated or uninsulated areas are particularly susceptible.
Poor Insulation: Inadequate insulation is a common culprit. Pipes located in exterior walls, basements, crawl spaces, or attics are vulnerable to the cold. Proper insulation acts as a protective barrier, preventing the transfer of cold temperatures to the water inside the pipes.
Thermostat Settings: A common oversight that contributes to frozen pipes is setting the thermostat too low, especially during periods of extended absence. While energy conservation is essential, maintaining a minimal indoor temperature, even when away, can prevent pipes from reaching freezing temperatures.
Exposure to Drafts: Drafts can exacerbate the freezing risk. Cracks or gaps in windows, doors, or walls allow cold air to infiltrate the home, affecting pipes’ temperature. Identifying and sealing these drafts is an effective preventive measure.

Preventing pipes from freezing involves a combination of insulation, controlled temperatures, and strategic actions:

Insulate Pipes: Adding insulation to pipes, especially exposed pipes in vulnerable areas, provides a protective barrier against the cold. Pipe insulation is readily available at hardware stores and can be a cost-effective solution.
Seal Leaks: Identifying and sealing any drafts or gaps in the home’s structure prevents the intrusion of cold air. This not only aids in preventing a frozen pipe, but also contributes to overall energy efficiency.
Open Cabinet Doors: Allowing warm air to circulate around pipes under sinks by opening cabinet doors can be beneficial. This is particularly important for pipes located along exterior walls, where insulation may be less effective.
Let Faucets Drip: Allowing faucets to drip slightly (you need only a trickle!) can relieve pressure in the pipes, reducing the risk of freezing pipes. While this may lead to minimal water wastage, it can be an effective preventive measure during extreme cold snaps. If it’s dripping persistently, our faucet repair specialists can help you out.
Keep Garage Doors Closed: Garages are often overlooked, but they can contribute to cold air infiltration. Keeping garage doors closed, especially if water supply lines run through the garage, helps maintain a warmer environment and helps with frozen pipe prevention.
Maintain Consistent Heat: Keeping the home consistently heated, even when residents are away, is crucial. This ensures that the temperature inside the home remains above the freezing point, safeguarding pipes from potential freezing.
Install Pipe Sleeves: For additional frozen pipe protection, consider installing pipe sleeves. These are insulating materials designed to wrap around pipes, providing an extra layer of defence against the cold.
Professional Inspection: Engaging in a professional plumbing and sewer line camera inspection, particularly before the onset of winter, is a proactive approach to identifying potential vulnerabilities. Plumbers, such as those from Son-Rise Plumbing, can assess the insulation, identify potential issues, and recommend tailored preventive measures.

3: Thawing Frozen Pipes

Knowing how to safely thaw a frozen pipe is crucial to prevent further damage. If you suspect you have a frozen pipe, it’s essential to act promptly.

Safe methods of thawing pipes include using tools such as a hair dryer, a heating lamp, a portable space heater, or an electric heating pad wrapped around exposed pipes. Direct the heat source toward the frozen section of the pipe, starting from the end closest to the faucet. This gradual application of heat helps melt the ice without creating undue pressure within the pipes.

You should never use open flames, such as torches or propane heaters, to thaw frozen pipes. They can pose significant risks, including fire hazards and damage to the pipes. The intense heat generated by these methods can lead to rapid expansion within the pipes, increasing the likelihood of bursting.

If uncertainty or safety concerns surround the thawing process, you should seek out the expertise of a professional plumber like Son-Rise Plumbing.

4: What About Frozen Toilet Pipes?

Different components of the plumbing system, including toilets, require special considerations in freezing temperatures.

To prevent frozen toilet pipes, it’s recommended you insulate water pipes, the toilet tank, and any exposed pipes. Keeping the bathroom door closed to contain warmth and running lukewarm water periodically can also help mitigate the risk of freezing in this specific area.

Are you experiencing this? Give our toilet repair and replacement experts a call!

5: How Can a Calgary Plumber Help?

Calgary plumbers play an integral role in both preventing and remedying frozen pipes. Long-term solutions may involve upgrading insulation or installing specific plumbing solutions tailored to Calgary’s unique climate.

Son-Rise Plumbing, as a local Calgary business, offers a range of services aimed at maintaining optimal plumbing conditions in the face of winter’s challenges. Our experienced team understands the intricacies of Calgary’s weather and provides expert solutions to ensure your plumbing remains resilient in the cold.

Call on Son-Rise Plumbing to Help

Contact Son-Rise Plumbing today if you’re worried about frozen water pipes, burst pipes, or want help to keep your pipes from freezing.

With our local expertise and commitment to the community, we not only address your immediate concerns when your pipes freeze, but can also provide guidance on preventive measures to fortify homes against the impending cold weather.

In the challenging winter climate of Calgary, early detection and timely intervention can make all the difference in ensuring a warm and hassle-free season.