Practical steps to keep your pipes from freezing during Hamilton's coldest weeks, plus what to do if they already have.
Why Hamilton pipes freeze
Hamilton sees several stretches every winter where overnight temperatures drop below -15°C. In older homes on the Mountain and in the lower city, uninsulated basements and exterior wall runs are the first casualties.
Frozen water expands and can burst copper, PEX, and galvanized pipe alike. The damage rarely shows up until the thaw.
Prevention checklist
Insulate any pipe in an exterior wall or unheated space.
Disconnect and drain outdoor hose bibs before the first hard frost.
Keep the thermostat at 15°C or higher when you travel.
Open cabinet doors under kitchen and bathroom sinks on the coldest nights.
If a pipe is already frozen
Shut off the main water valve before you try to thaw. Use a hair dryer on low, working from the faucet end back toward the frozen section.
Never use an open flame. If the pipe has burst, call a licensed plumber immediately.