Winter in the Okanagan brings freezing temperatures, heavy moisture, and increased demand on your home’s plumbing and HVAC systems. Unfortunately, it’s also the season when emergencies are most likely to occur, and most vital to fix quickly. From burst pipes to furnace breakdowns, a winter disaster can quickly disrupt your comfort, and cause expensive damage, if not handled properly.
Here’s what every homeowner should know and the steps to take immediately when a plumbing or HVAC emergency strikes during BC winters.
Common Winter Plumbing Emergencies & What to Do
Cold weather puts enormous stress on your plumbing system, especially when temperatures fall below freezing during Kelowna’s cold snaps. The most common winter-related plumbing emergencies include:
Frozen or Burst Pipes
When water inside your pipes freezes, it expands, causing pressure that can crack or rupture pipes. Learn more about how to winterize your plumbing here.
If you suspect a freeze:
- Turn off your home’s main water supply.
- Open faucets to relieve pressure.
- Use a safe heat source like a hair dryer to thaw exposed pipes gently.
- Never use an open flame, which can cause fire hazards.
Water Heater & Boiler Failure
Water heaters work harder in winter, and sediment buildup or overuse can lead to sudden failure. Additionally, if your home relies on radiant heat, boiler issues can leave you without warmth. Signs of trouble include inconsistent hot water, strange noises, or leaks. Read our guide on boiler maintenance in winter for more info.
Until a technician arrives:
- Reduce hot water use.
- Check for visible leaks.
- Verify the pilot light (for gas models) is still on.
Clogged Drains & Backup Issues
Grease buildup, holiday cooking, and increased indoor activity can make winter drain problems more common. If you notice slow drains or backups:
- Avoid using chemical drain cleaners, which may worsen the issue.
- Stop using affected fixtures.
- Contact a professional for safe, effective clearing.
Acting quickly can prevent small issues from becoming large, costly disasters.
HVAC Breakdowns in Winter & the First Steps to Take
A malfunctioning furnace or heat pump during freezing weather isn’t just an inconvenience it can be dangerous. HVAC systems are pushed to their limits in winter, making breakdowns more likely.
Furnace Failure
If your furnace stops heating:
- First, check your thermostat settings.
- Replace or clean the furnace filter, blocked airflow can shut a system down. Skipping this is a common mistake; see why a fall furnace tune-up is essential.
- Ensure your breaker panel hasn’t tripped.
If the furnace still won’t turn on, stop troubleshooting and call a professional. Avoid repeatedly resetting the system, as this can cause further damage.
Heat Pump Not Defrosting
Heat pumps naturally accumulate frost in winter, but if the unit becomes encased in ice:
- Confirm the outdoor unit has airflow clearance.
- Check if the system is entering defrost mode.
- Don’t attempt to chip away ice manually, this may damage the fins or coils.
Carbon Monoxide Concerns
Gas furnaces pose an added risk: carbon monoxide leaks. Winter is also when indoor pollutants spike because homes are sealed tight. Check out our tips for maintaining indoor air quality in winter.
Symptoms of a CO include headaches, dizziness, or nausea. If you suspect a leak:
- Leave the home immediately.
- Call emergency services.
- Do not re-enter until the area is deemed safe.
Having functioning CO detectors is essential during winter.
How to Stay Prepared & When to Call a Professional
Preparation is the most effective way to prevent winter emergencies, but knowing when to call an expert is equally important.
Preventive Steps for Homeowners
- Insulate exposed pipes, especially in attics, crawlspaces, and exterior walls.
- Schedule seasonal furnace maintenance to catch issues early.
- Check heat pump airflow and remove snow or debris around outdoor units.
- Flush your water heater to reduce sediment buildup.
- Seal drafts around windows, doors, and foundation cracks to keep temperatures stable.
When to Call a Professional Immediately
- Water is leaking or pooling anywhere in the home.
- The furnace is blowing cold air or won’t turn on.
- You smell gas or suspect carbon monoxide.
- Pipes are frozen and inaccessible.
- Drains are backing up into sinks, tubs, or toilets.
Timely intervention from a trained technician protects your home and your safety while preventing deeper system damage.
Stay Protected This Winter
Winter emergencies can escalate quickly, but knowing how to respond and when to bring in a professional can save you time, stress, and unnecessary expense. Whether you’re dealing with a burst pipe, a failing furnace, or an unexpected system breakdown, help is close by. For fast, reliable winter emergency service in Kelowna and west Kelowna, Vision Plumbing Heating Cooling is here to restore your comfort and protect your home when it matters most.
Frequently Asked Questions About Winter Plumbing & HVAC Emergencies
What should I do first if a pipe bursts in winter?
Shut off your home’s main water supply immediately to prevent flooding. Then open faucets to relieve pressure and contact a professional plumber right away. Avoid attempting major repairs on your own.
How can I tell if my pipes are frozen?
Common signs include little to no water flow, frost on exposed pipes, bulging pipe sections, or unusual dripping sounds. If you notice these symptoms, turn off the water and begin safely warming the pipe with a hair dryer or space heater.
Why do furnaces commonly fail in winter?
Furnaces work harder during cold months, which can cause worn parts to fail, filters to clog, and ignition systems to malfunction. Lack of seasonal maintenance is one of the biggest contributors to winter breakdowns.
What should I check before calling for HVAC emergency service?
Verify thermostat settings, replace the furnace filter, and check your breaker panel for a tripped switch. If these simple steps don’t resolve the issue, contact a certified HVAC technician immediately.
What are the signs of a carbon monoxide leak?
Symptoms include headaches, dizziness, nausea, confusion, or sudden fatigue. If your CO detector alarms or you suspect a leak, exit the home immediately and call emergency services. Do not attempt to ventilate the space yourself.
