As Alberta’s winter ice begins to melt, homeowners may face an unexpected threat—Spring thaw & frozen pipes. When frozen pipes start to thaw, hidden cracks, weakened joints, and pressure buildup can lead to serious water damage. At Capital Plumbing & Heating, we specialize in pipe inspections, repairs, and preventative plumbing solutions to help you transition smoothly from winter to spring.
Don’t let thawing pipes catch you off guard! Here’s what you need to know to protect your plumbing system, avoid costly repairs, and keep your home dry this spring.
Why the Spring Thaw is a Risk for Your Plumbing
During the cold winter months, water inside your pipes may have frozen and expanded, placing immense pressure on the pipe walls. Even if your pipes didn’t burst in the winter, small hairline cracks or weakened spots may have developed. Once the ice inside those pipes melts in the spring, water starts flowing again—and that’s when leaks or full-blown pipe bursts can happen.
Common Signs of Post-Winter Pipe Damage
Wondering if your pipes suffered damage over the winter? Look out for these warning signs:
🚰 Weak or Fluctuating Water Pressure – If your faucets or showerheads aren’t providing steady water flow, you may have a hidden leak.
💧 Water Stains or Damp Spots – Check walls, ceilings, and under sinks for discoloration or bubbling paint, which could indicate an unseen pipe leak.
🚿 Unusual Noises in Your Plumbing System – If you hear banging, gurgling, or whistling when turning on your taps, air pockets from a cracked pipe could be the cause.
📉 Unexpectedly High Water Bills – A spike in your water bill without increased usage often points to a hidden water leak somewhere in your plumbing system.
🔄 Water Meter Running When No Water is in Use – To test for leaks, turn off all faucets and appliances that use water, then check your water meter. If it’s still running, you likely have a leak.
How to Prevent Spring Thaw Plumbing Disasters
✅ Slowly Turn Your Water On – If you shut off your outdoor faucets or any plumbing sections during winter, turn them on gradually to prevent a sudden surge of water pressure.
✅ Inspect Exposed Pipes for Damage – Check visible pipes in your basement, garage, and under sinks for bulges, cracks, or water seepage.
✅ Check Your Foundation and Drainage – Spring thaw can cause flooding around your home’s foundation, leading to potential basement leaks. Make sure your sump pump is working and that water is draining properly away from your home.
✅ Schedule a Professional Plumbing Inspection – The best way to catch small pipe issues before they become major problems is with a thorough inspection from Capital Plumbing & Heating. Our experienced technicians use advanced leak detection technology to pinpoint and fix any weaknesses in your plumbing system.
What to Do If Your Pipes Burst or Leak During the Spring Thaw
If you discover a leaking or burst pipe, here’s what you should do immediately to minimize damage:
🚨 Shut Off Your Main Water Valve – Locate your home’s main water shut-off valve (usually found in the basement or near the water meter) and turn it off immediately to stop further flooding.
📞 Call Capital Plumbing & Heating for Emergency Repairs – (780) 451-5666 – Our licensed plumbers are available to assess, repair, and replace damaged pipes quickly.
🛠️ Remove Excess Water to Prevent Mold Growth – If water has leaked into your home, use towels, fans, and a dehumidifier to dry the area as quickly as possible.
🏡 Monitor Your Plumbing for Additional Leaks – If one pipe has burst, others may be at risk. Keep an eye on your plumbing system and listen for any unusual sounds.
How Capital Plumbing & Heating Can Help
Spring thaw should be a time to enjoy warmer weather—not deal with plumbing disasters. At Capital Plumbing & Heating, we offer:
✔️ Comprehensive Pipe Inspections – Detect and prevent leaks before they cause serious damage.
✔️ Emergency Pipe Repairs – Fast, reliable service when you need it most.
✔️ Drainage and Sump Pump Solutions – Protect your basement from spring flooding.
✔️ Year-Round Plumbing Maintenance – Keep your plumbing in top shape with seasonal maintenance plans.
Don’t wait for a burst pipe emergency—take action now!
📞 Call Capital Plumbing & Heating at (780) 451-5666 to schedule a spring plumbing inspection and ensure your home is protected.
