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Home > Services > Residential Services > Water Services > Frozen Water Service
Frozen Water Service
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When prolonged extreme cold temperatures happen, water pipes that delivering water to homes and businesses may be impacted. Homes or businesses noticing a decrease in water pressure or do not have any water at all, may have frozen pipes. It is also possible for the water meter to freeze, which can damage the meter. If a frozen water service is suspected, call Access Vaughan at 905-832-2281.
 
A licensed water operator can help determine if and where the water service is frozen. If the pipes are frozen from the outside on municipal property, City staff will proceed to thaw the service. Frozen pipes on private property are the responsibility of the homeowner who will need to contact a plumber to have the service thawed.
 
If the water meter is frozen and damaged, a new meter will need to be purchased from the City and installed by a licensed plumber. Please bear in mind there may be delays in response times when the City is experiencing a high volume of calls from residents and businesses without water.
 
For more information please view the Frozen Water Service brochure (PDF).

Preventing frozen water service  

Tips for when temperatures are below freezing:
  • Leave a cold-water tap running slowly at a level just above a drip so there is some movement of water in the pipes.
  • Insulate pipes in areas most susceptible to freezing such as those near outside walls, or in crawl spaces, attics or garages. Use foam pipe covers/insulation, which is available at hardware stores.
  • Seal any leaks that allow cold air inside, especially in areas that are near pipes. Use caulk or insulation to keep the cold out and the heat in.
  • Apply a low-wattage pipe wrap heater, heat tape or space heating. Use products approved by product safety certification organizations such as Canadian Standards Association and operate them as directed.
  • Maintain a consistent temperature at or above 15 degrees Celsius (60 degrees Fahrenheit) in the home.  
If away from the house for an extended period, have someone check the house daily to ensure the heat is on and the pipes aren’t frozen.
 
Another option is to turn off the main water valve coming into the house. Ensure that the water is drained by opening the taps to drain any water sitting in the pipes. This will prevent water loss and damage should a leak occur in the plumbing while away. 
 

 Contact Information

 

Environmental Services

Phone: 905-832-2281

Fax: 905-303-2005

Email: accessvaughan@vaughan.ca 

Location: 
Joint Operations Centre
2800 Rutherford Rd.

Vaughan, ON 
L4K 2N9
 
Hours of operation:
Monday to Friday - 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
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 Related Links

 
  • Bulk water stations
  • Clean Water and Wastewater Fund (CWWF) projects
  • Frequently asked questions
  • Hydrant meter rentals
  • Outdoor water use and restrictions
  • Rent The Water Cooler
 

 Additional Resources

 
  • Frozen Water Service brochure (PDF)
  • Water By-Law 177-2016 (PDF)
  • Water conservation brochure (PDF)
  • Water usage calculator
  • Water Wise brochure (PDF)
  • York Region private well water testing
  • York Region Water Services

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