Winnipeg winters are legendary—weeks of -30°C temperatures that can freeze just about anything. If your washing machine is in the wrong location or you’re winterizing a cabin, protecting your washer from the cold is essential.
Here’s how to winterize your washing machine and prevent costly freeze damage.
When Winterizing Matters
You Need to Winterize If:
- Your washer is in an unheated garage or outbuilding
- You’re closing a cottage or cabin for winter
- The washer is near exterior walls in older, drafty homes
- You’re leaving your home unoccupied for extended periods
- Your laundry area doesn’t maintain heat reliably
Normal Precautions Are Fine If:
- Your washer is in a consistently heated space
- You use it regularly (prevents standing water issues)
- The laundry area stays above freezing
The Damage Freezing Causes
When water freezes inside your washing machine, it expands and can damage:
- Inlet hoses – Cracking or bursting
- Water inlet valves – Internal components crack
- Drain pump – Housing and impeller damage
- Internal hoses – Hidden lines between components
- Tub and seals – Residual water in drum seal areas
These repairs can be expensive—often $200-500+, sometimes totaling the machine.
How to Fully Winterize a Washing Machine
For cottages, cabins, or unheated spaces:
Step 1: Turn Off Water Supply
Close the hot and cold water taps behind the washer completely.
Step 2: Disconnect Power
Unplug the machine for safety.
Step 3: Disconnect Inlet Hoses
Remove the inlet hoses from both the washer and the wall taps. Drain any water from the hoses.
Step 4: Drain the Pump and Lines
- Reconnect power temporarily
- Run a quick spin/drain cycle to force out residual water
- Unplug again
Step 5: Use RV Antifreeze
Important: Use ONLY RV/marine antifreeze (propylene glycol)—NEVER automotive antifreeze.
- Pour 1-2 quarts of RV antifreeze into the drum
- Run a brief drain cycle (30 seconds to 1 minute)
- This pushes antifreeze through the pump and drain lines
Step 6: Disconnect Drain Hose
Remove and drain the drain hose. Let any remaining water run out.
Step 7: Leave Door Open
Prop the door or lid open to allow any moisture to evaporate and prevent mold.
Step 8: Cover the Machine
A light cover prevents dust and pests, but ensure airflow to prevent moisture buildup.
Winnipeg Winter Tips for Home Washers
Even if you’re not fully winterizing, Winnipeg’s cold presents challenges:
Insulate Pipes Near Exterior Walls
Water supply lines near outside walls can freeze:
- Add pipe insulation (foam sleeves)
- Use heat tape on vulnerable sections
- Keep cabinet doors open to allow warm air circulation
During Extreme Cold Snaps
When temperatures drop below -25°C:
- Let a small trickle of water run from a nearby faucet
- Check that the laundry area stays warm
- Consider running a short wash cycle to keep water moving
If You’ll Be Away
- Keep heat on (minimum 15°C / 60°F)
- Turn off water supply to washer as precaution
- Have someone check on your home periodically
Signs of Freeze Damage
After a cold snap or upon returning to a property, check for:
- Cracked hoses – Visible splits or bulges
- Leaks when running – Water coming from unexpected places
- Machine won’t fill – Inlet valve damage
- Machine won’t drain – Pump damage
- Error codes – Related to water supply or drainage
Don’t run the machine if you suspect it was frozen until:
- It’s completely thawed
- You’ve inspected visible components
- You run a test cycle and watch for leaks
Reactivating a Winterized Washer
When you’re ready to use the washer again:
Step 1: Reconnect Everything
- Attach inlet hoses to washer and taps
- Reconnect drain hose
- Ensure all connections are tight
Step 2: Turn On Water
- Open taps slowly
- Check for leaks at connections
- Let water fill briefly to flush antifreeze
Step 3: Run a Rinse Cycle
- Run 2-3 empty hot water cycles
- This flushes out all remaining antifreeze
- Use a washer cleaner on the final cycle if desired
Step 4: Test Everything
- Check for leaks during fill, wash, and drain
- Listen for unusual noises
- Verify normal operation
Emergency: Your Washer Froze
If you discover your washer froze:
- Don’t turn it on – Running a frozen pump can destroy it
- Warm the area gradually (don’t use direct heat on the washer)
- Wait for full thaw – May take 24-48 hours depending on severity
- Inspect carefully before operating
- Run a test cycle with close monitoring
- Call for professional inspection if you’re uncertain
Many freeze-damaged components aren’t visible externally.
Professional Winter Service in Winnipeg
If your washing machine suffered freeze damage, or you need help preparing for winter, our technicians can assist. We inspect for hidden damage, replace cracked components, and get your washer ready for Winnipeg weather.
Contact us today for washing machine winterization and repair in Winnipeg. Don’t let the cold destroy your appliance.