Protect Your Water System from Freezing This Winter
Protect Your Water System from Freezing This Winter
Here in the Fraser Valley, our winters can be unpredictable. One week it’s mild and rainy, and the next, a north cold front sneaks in overnight. That sudden drop in temperature catches many homeowners off guard, and before long, our team at EDS Pumps & Water Treatment hears from customers with no water due to frozen pipes or well components.
Frozen pipes and frozen well components can cause serious damage, from burst lines to ruined pumps and pressure tanks. Taking a few proactive steps now can help you protect your well water system from freezing and keep water flowing all winter long.
Protect Your Well Components
Your well and its components are particularly vulnerable to freezing. Some steps to safeguard them include:
Pitless adapters: These connect to your well casing below the frost line and divert water horizontally, keeping it frost-free while maintaining easy access to the well. If you’re considering installing, contact EDS Pumps & Water Treatment to discuss installation and protect your well this winter.
Wellhead protection: Ensure your wellhead is shielded from snow, ice, and heavy equipment like snow blowers or plows. Older wells near driveways or roads can benefit from fiberglass markers to help locate and clear snow safely. Add insulation or a wellhead cover for extra protection if needed.
Insulate Pipes, Tanks, and Pump Components
Exposed water lines, pressure tanks, and pipes in pump houses or well pits should be insulated. Heat tape can provide extra protection for vulnerable lines. To do this safely:
• Follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully.
• Avoid overlapping heat tape, which can create hazards.
• Insulate hot water lines to reduce energy loss and get hot water to your faucets faster.
EDS Pumps & Water Treatment can help you select and install heat tape solutions for your well system. Reach out to our team at 604-534-1115 or fill out our inquiry form here.
Keep Water Flowing and Maintain Heat
• Keep the area around your well, pressure tank, and pump house above freezing. Use insulation around the pump house or well pit, seal drafts, and consider a small space heater or heat lamp if needed.
• Even a slow drip from indoor faucets along exterior walls can help prevent freezing.
• If you’re away for an extended period, ask a trusted neighbor or house sitter to occasionally run the taps.
• Maintain a consistent indoor temperature, ideally no lower than 12°C (55°F).
Turn Off and Drain Outdoor Lines
Outdoor hoses, irrigation systems, and decorative water features are especially prone to freezing. Always:
• Turn off outdoor faucets and disconnect hoses.
• Drain irrigation systems, including main valves and timers.
• For outdoor pumps, keep water circulating if possible.
• Consider insulating above-ground irrigation components if they are exposed..
EDS Pumps & Water Treatment can guide you on properly winterizing outdoor lines and pumps.
Checking and Thawing Frozen Pipes
If water isn’t flowing or only a trickle comes from taps, or if you see frost on exposed pipes, freezing may have occurred.
To thaw safely:
• Use a hair dryer, space heater, or heat lamp on the frozen section.
• Never use an open flame.
• Call a professional immediately if thawing isn’t possible or safe.
Contact EDS Pumps & Water Treatment for safe thawing or emergency service if your well or water lines freeze.
Stay Ahead of Cold Fronts
Winter in the Fraser Valley can arrive unexpectedly, but a few simple steps can prevent costly damage. From pitless adapters and insulation to heat tape and safe thawing, preparing your well water system now can save you stress, money, and lost water access.
If you’re unsure how to winterize your well, contact EDS Pumps & Water Treatment today. Our experts can inspect your system, recommend the right solutions, and install equipment to protect your well water system from freezing all season long.
