As the Peace Region heads into the cold season, the Alberta Motor Association (AMA) has issued a reminder for homeowners to remember to turn off and drain outdoor faucets to prevent cracked pipes, mold, and costly damages.
According to AMA, frozen pipes are one of the most common winter-related damage claims in Alberta, and with repairs costing between $5,000 and $75,000, they are one of the costliest.
Officials say cracked pipes could be serious right away, and with Albertan weather patterns fluctuating so frequently, the damage is far more likely to be serious as soon as it is noticed; however, AMA Property Claims Manager Dennise Roach says that by the time a homeowner notices cracked pipe damage, it is already too late, and repairs are already needed.
“That’s why you need to be proactive in the Fall, and make sure you are shutting off those outdoor pipes and draining them,” she says.
Additionally, homeowners who plan on being away from home for longer than 24 hours, are advised to have a friend check in to make sure outdoor pipes are safe in freezing temperatures.
“If you leave your house at any time, you should always make sure that you’re turning off the main water, and drain any of those taps, and don’t forget to drain toilet tanks,” she says.
AMA says by draining faucets, homeowners are likely to prevent costly repairs that are easily preventable if the correct steps are taken.
