Finding the right plumbing service in Calgary isn’t just about fixing a leak or installing a water heater; it’s about protecting your home, your budget, and your peace of mind. With so many options available, homeowners often ask: How do I know which plumbing company I can trust? This guide will walk you through the key factors to consider, common plumbing issues in Calgary, and why Aquality Plumbing & Heating has become a trusted name for over 21 years.
Why Choosing the Right Plumbing Service Matters
Plumbing and heating systems are the backbone of your home. When something goes wrong, whether it’s a burst pipe in winter or a failing hot water tank, the consequences can be costly and stressful. Choosing the right service provider ensures:
Reliable repairs and installations that prevent recurring issues.
Transparent pricing so you’re not surprised by hidden fees.
Qualified technicians who understand Calgary’s unique climate challenges.
Peace of mind knowing your home is in safe hands.
Common Plumbing Concerns in Calgary Homes
Calgary homeowners face specific challenges due to the city’s climate and housing stock. Some of the most common issues include:
Frozen or burst pipes – Subzero temperatures can cause water to freeze and expand, leading to cracks and leaks.
Hot water tank problems – Leaks, insufficient hot water, or tanks reaching the end of their lifespan.
Poly B piping risks – Homes built between the late 1970s and mid-1990s may still have Poly B piping, which is prone to leaks and insurance complications.
Drain backups and clogs – Seasonal changes and older infrastructure often lead to drainage issues.
Furnace and heating failures – Especially critical during Calgary’s harsh winters.
Knowing these risks helps you ask the right questions when hiring a plumber.
Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a Plumbing Service
Licensing & Qualifications
Always confirm that your plumber is licensed, insured, and trained. Aquality’s technicians are fully qualified and backed by years of hands-on experience in Calgary homes.
Transparent Pricing
Hidden fees are one of the biggest frustrations for homeowners. Look for companies that clearly outline costs upfront. Aquality stands out with no dispatch fee, no commission, and honest pricing.
Availability & Emergency Response
Plumbing emergencies don’t wait for business hours. Choose a company that offers 24/7 emergency service. Aquality’s team is always ready to respond, day or night.
Local Experience
A plumber who understands Calgary’s climate and housing styles can anticipate problems before they escalate. With 21 years of service in Calgary and the surrounding areas, Aquality has built deep expertise in local plumbing and heating systems.
Customer Communication
The right plumber explains issues in plain language, offers guidance, and avoids upselling. Aquality’s approach is simple: “We will not sell you on doing work at any time; we will simply guide you.”
Benefits of Choosing Aquality Plumbing & Heating
Trustworthy service: Built on values of communication, integrity, and accountability.
Community-focused: Serving Calgary, Okotoks, High River, Springbank, Bragg Creek, and beyond.
Customer-first approach: Clear explanations, detailed inspection reports, and guidance on what’s urgent versus what can wait.
For example, if you’re considering ahot water tank replacement, Aquality provides straightforward advice on whether repair or replacement is the best option, ensuring you don’t spend more than necessary.
How to Evaluate Plumbing Companies Step by Step
Check credentials – Verify licensing and insurance.
Ask about pricing – Ensure transparency and avoid vague “call for pricing” quotes.
Review experience – Look for companies with proven local expertise.
Read customer reviews – Testimonials reveal how a company treats its clients.
Confirm emergency availability – Ask if they provide 24/7 service.
Assess communication style – Do they explain clearly without jargon?
FAQs: Choosing a Plumbing Service in Calgary
Q: How do I know if my Poly B piping needs repair?
If your home was built between 1978 and 1995, there’s a strong chance that it contains polybutylene (Poly B) piping. Look for grey plastic pipes. Even if they haven’t failed yet, they pose risks. Aquality offers safe, professionalPoly B replacement services.
Q: Should I repair or replace my hot water tank?
Most tanks last between 8 and 12 years. If yours is leaking or struggling to provide hot water, replacement may be a more cost-effective option. Aquality’s technicians can guide you through the decision.
Q: What’s the benefit of hiring a local Calgary plumber versus a national chain?
Local plumbers are familiar with Calgary’s climate, water quality, and local housing styles. They’re invested in the community and provide personalized service.
Pros & Cons of Hiring Different Types of Plumbing Services
National Chains
Pros: Large teams and a recognizable brand.
Cons: Less personalized service, higher fees, and pressure to upsell.
Flush your hot water tank annually to reduce sediment buildup.
Check for leaks regularly around faucets, toilets, and appliances to avoid water damage.
Schedule inspections to catch issues early, especially with older piping.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right plumbing service in Calgary comes down to trust, transparency, and expertise. Aquality Plumbing & Heating has built its reputation by delivering honest pricing, dependable service, and clear communication for over two decades. When you need a plumber, don’t settle for uncertainty. Choose a company that treats your home like their own, explains every step, and stands behind their work.
Ready to find a reliable plumbing service? Aquality Plumbing & Heating is here to help, whether it’s an emergency repair, a hot water tank replacement, or preventative maintenance.Contact Us Today to schedule your service and experience Calgary’s trusted plumbing experts.
Hot water tanks are one of the most relied-upon systems in Calgary homes. From morning showers to laundry and dishwashing, your tank works hard every day, especially during long, cold winters. Yet many homeowners only think about their hot water tank when something goes wrong. Regular maintenance is the key to avoiding unexpected failures, saving money, and ensuring your family always has reliable hot water. This guide explains how to maintain your hot water tank, common issues Calgary residents face, and why Aquality Plumbing & Heating is the trusted choice for repairs, replacements, and ongoing service.
Why Hot Water Tank Maintenance Matters
A well-maintained hot water tank can last 8–12 years, sometimes longer. Without maintenance, sediment buildup, corrosion, and worn components can dramatically shorten its lifespan. In Calgary, where hard water and heavy winter usage put extra stress on tanks, maintenance is not optional; it’s essential.
Benefits of regular maintenance include:
Longer lifespan for your tank.
Improved energy efficiency and lower utility bills.
Reduced risk of leaks and costly water damage.
Consistent hot water supply for your household.
Common Hot Water Tank Issues in Calgary
Sediment buildup – Calgary’s hard water leaves mineral deposits that settle at the bottom of the tank, reducing efficiency and causing overheating.
Corrosion – Without regular inspection of the anode rod, tanks can rust and leak.
Pressure problems – High water pressure accelerates wear and tear.
Temperature fluctuations – Faulty thermostats or heating elements can cause inconsistent water heating.
Leaks – Small leaks often signal bigger problems ahead.
Step-by-Step Maintenance Tips
Flush the Tank Annually
Sediment buildup is the most common issue. Flushing the tank once a year helps remove deposits and keeps the system running efficiently.
How-to:
Turn off the power or gas supply.
Connect a hose to the drain valve.
Drain several litres until the water runs clear.
Refill and restart the tank.
Inspect the Anode Rod
The anode rod prevents corrosion by attracting minerals that would otherwise cause it. Check it every 2–3 years. If it’s worn down to less than 1.5 cm, replace it.
Test the Pressure Relief Valve
Lift the valve’s lever to ensure water flows out; if it doesn’t, replace the valve immediately.
Check the Thermostat Settings
Set the temperature to 49°C (120°F). This prevents scalding, saves energy, and reduces stress on the tank.
Check for Heat Loss
Lack of Insulation increases heat loss and may cause freezing in Calgary’s cold winters.
FAQs About Hot Water Tank Maintenance For Calgary
Q: How often should I flush my hot water tank?
At least once a year. In areas with hard water, it is recommended to do this twice a year.
Q: Can I do maintenance myself?
Basic tasks, such as flushing, are manageable, but inspections and repairs should be left to licensed technicians.
Q: How do I know if my tank needs replacement?
If your tank is over 10 years old, leaking, or struggling to provide hot water, replacement may be more cost-effective than repair.
Pros & Cons of DIY vs Professional Maintenance
DIY Maintenance
Pros: Saves money and is easy for simple tasks.
Cons: Risk of mistakes, limited ability to detect hidden issues.
Cons: Service cost, though often less than repair bills from neglected tanks.
Why Choose Aquality Plumbing & Heating
For over 21 years, Aquality has been Calgary’s trusted provider of plumbing and heating services. Here’s what sets us apart:
No dispatch fee, no commission, honest pricing.
24/7 emergency service: always available when you need help.
Highly qualified technicians with extensive experience in hot water tank repair and replacement.
Detailed inspection reports so you know what’s urgent and what can wait.
Community-focused service: local experts who understand Calgary’s climate and water systems.
If you’re considering a new tank, visit Aquality’sHot Water Tank Services page for expert advice and installation options.
Maintenance Checklist for Calgary Homeowners
Flush the tank annually.
Inspect the anode rod every 2 to 3 years.
Test the pressure relief valve yearly.
Check thermostat settings.
Check for heat loss.
Schedule a professional inspection every 2 to 3 years.
When to Call A Professional
Persistent leaks.
Rust-coloured water.
Strange noises (popping or rumbling).
Inconsistent hot water supply.
The tank is older than 10 years.
Aquality’s licensed technicians can quickly diagnose issues and recommend repair or replacement.
Final Thoughts
Hot water tank maintenance is one of the smartest investments Calgary homeowners can make. With regular care, you’ll extend your tank’s lifespan, save money, and avoid the stress of mid-winter breakdowns.
Aquality Plumbing & Heating combines honest pricing, 24/7 emergency service, and over two decades of local expertise to give you peace of mind. Whether you need routine maintenance, repair, or replacement, their team is ready to help.
Call to Action
Don’t wait until your hot water tank fails. Protect your home and comfort today with Calgary’s trusted experts.Contact Us Today to schedule your hot water tank inspection or service.
What Makes Aquality Plumbing & Heating the Top Calgary Plumbers? Regarding plumbing in Calgary, homeowners and businesses want more than quick fixes. They want reliable, long-lasting solutions from professionals who understand local systems and climate conditions. At Aquality Plumbing & Heating, we’ve made it our mission to be the kind of plumbing company you can trust—whether you’re facing a burst pipe in the dead of winter or planning a full-scale renovation in the summer.
So, what makes us stand out as one of the top plumbing companies in Calgary? It’s not just about what we do but how we do it. Our commitment to quality, integrity, and community-focused service is at the heart of everything we offer.
Local Calgary Expertise You Can Trust
We’ve been serving Calgary and surrounding communities for years, so we know what it takes to keep plumbing systems running efficiently in this region. Our team understands homeowners ‘ local challenges, from managing water heater performance in the coldest months to preventing basement flooding during the spring thaw.
That local knowledge translates into faster diagnoses, smarter solutions, and fewer return visits. We don’t apply one-size-fits-all fixes—we tailor our services to suit the unique demands of Calgary homes and buildings.
A Team That’s Licensed, Experienced, and Friendly
We take pride in the team we’ve built. Our plumbers are fully licensed, insured, and continuously trained on the latest industry standards and technologies. But technical know-how is only part of the equation. What sets us apart is how we treat our customers.
We show up on time, explain your options clearly, and clean up after ourselves. We’re always happy to answer questions, whether you need help understanding a repair or planning a future upgrade. From the first phone call to the final check-in, we aim to make your experience as smooth and stress-free as possible.
Comprehensive Calgary Plumbing Services
We don’t limit ourselves to just a few services. Whether you need help with a dripping faucet, a faulty sump pump, or a full bathroom renovation, we’ve covered it. Our full suite of plumbing services includes:
Custom plumbing and heating solutions for renovations and new builds
We’re also proud to work with residential and light commercial clients, offering tailored solutions for each.
Transparent Pricing and Honest Advice
One of the things our customers appreciate most is our honest approach to pricing. We don’t surprise you with hidden fees or try to upsell services you don’t need. Instead, we take time to explain what’s going on, your options, and what each one will cost so you can make informed decisions that work for your budget.
When we make recommendations, we believe they’re in your best interest—not because we’re chasing commissions. That kind of integrity keeps our customers returning and referring us to friends and family.
Eco-Friendly and Efficient Plumbing Solutions
As Calgary grows and evolves, so does our commitment to sustainability. We offer water-efficient fixtures, energy-saving water heaters, and systems designed to reduce waste and maximize performance.
Whether you’re looking to cut down on utility bills or do your part for the environment, we can help you find the right plumbing solutions. We also stay current on Calgary’s building codes and rebate programs so you can take advantage of any savings or incentives available.
Backed by a Strong Reputation
There’s no better endorsement than a happy customer, and we’re proud to say that much of our business comes from repeat clients and referrals. Our reputation for professionalism, reliability, and top-tier workmanship has made us a trusted name in Calgary plumbing. From Google reviews to word-of-mouth recommendations, the feedback we receive drives us to continue raising the bar.
We’re Not Just Calgary Plumbers—We’re Problem Solvers
Every plumbing problem is an opportunity to make someone’s day a little easier. Whether you need hot water back, a stubborn leak fixed, or help planning a dream renovation, we take pride in delivering practical solutions with a personal touch.
At Aquality Plumbing & Heating, we combine technical skills with a deep commitment to customer care. This combination makes us one of Calgary’s top residential and commercial plumbing choices.
Let’s Work Together
If you’re looking for a plumbing team that shows up, gets it right the first time, and truly cares about the outcome, we’re ready to help. Contact Aquality Plumbing & Heating today to schedule a visit, request a quote, or learn more about what we offer. We’re here to keep your water flowing and your stress levels low.
What Services Do Calgary Plumbers Like Aquality Plumbing & Heating Provide? When plumbing problems strike, it’s not just about fixing a leak or unclogging a drain—it’s about restoring comfort, functionality, and peace of mind to your home or business. At Aquality Plumbing & Heating, we understand how vital a well-maintained plumbing system is, and that’s why we offer a comprehensive range of services to meet the unique needs of Calgary residents.
As a local company, we’re deeply familiar with the challenges of Calgary’s climate, water quality, and aging infrastructure. That insight allows us to provide reliable plumbing solutions that aren’t just quick fixes but lasting improvements. Whether you’re a homeowner dealing with a surprise leak or a property manager planning renovations, here’s a closer look at the services our team proudly provides.
Emergency Plumbing Repairs In Calgary
Plumbing emergencies don’t wait for business hours. A burst pipe, overflowing toilet, or broken water heater can happen anytime—and when they do, you need help fast. We offer responsive emergency services throughout Calgary to tackle urgent issues before they cause more damage.
We come equipped to identify the root of the problem quickly and perform repairs on the spot when possible. We aim to minimize disruption while restoring your plumbing system to full function.
Drain Cleaning and Unclogging
Blocked drains are among the most common issues we’re called to handle. From hair buildup in bathroom sinks to grease and food debris in kitchen lines, clogs can develop over time, bringing your home to a standstill.
We use professional-grade tools and camera inspections to clear blockages safely and efficiently—no guesswork, no temporary fixes. Regular drain cleaning is a great preventive step to avoid future backups and water damage.
Leak Detection and Repair
Leaks may seem minor initially, but even a small drip can waste thousands of litres of water and cause structural issues over time. Our team uses non-invasive methods to detect leaks behind walls, under floors, and in hard-to-access areas.
Once the issue is pinpointed, we carry out precise repairs that eliminate the leak without unnecessary demolition. Whether it’s a leaky faucet, toilet, or hidden pipe, we address it thoroughly and professionally.
Water Heater Installation and Service
Hot water is essential for everyday life, and when your water heater isn’t working properly, it’s more than an inconvenience. We install, maintain, and repair traditional tank water heaters and modern tankless water heater systems.
We’ll help you choose the right model for your household’s size and usage, and ensure it’s installed to current safety and efficiency standards. If your system shows signs of wear—like inconsistent temperatures or strange noises—we can diagnose and resolve the issue before a full breakdown occurs.
Furnace Installation and Service
A reliable furnace is essential for keeping your home warm and comfortable through Calgary’s long, cold winters. We install, maintain, and repair all types of furnaces, ensuring they run safely, efficiently, and reliably when you need them most.
From selecting the right size and model for your home to handling seasonal tune-ups and emergency repairs, our team ensures your heating system delivers consistent performance year after year. If you notice unusual noises, uneven heating, or rising energy costs, we’ll diagnose and fix the problem quickly.
Air Conditioner and Heat Pump Services
When summer temperatures rise, your air conditioner or heat pump becomes key to staying cool and comfortable. We install, service, and repair various air conditioning systems and energy-efficient heat pumps designed to handle Calgary’s seasonal shifts.
Whether upgrading to a high-efficiency model, scheduling a pre-season checkup, or dealing with an unexpected breakdown, we ensure your cooling system runs at its best. If you experience weak airflow, uneven cooling, or higher-than-normal energy bills, we’ll pinpoint the issue and get your home comfortable again.
Toilet, Faucet, and Fixture Services
Whether you’re updating your bathroom or fixing a broken faucet, we provide expert service for all kinds of toilets, sinks, showers, and fixtures. From simple repairs to complete replacements, our work is clean, precise, and built to last. Upgrading to water-efficient fixtures? We can help you make choices that lower your utility bills without compromising performance.
Sump Pumps and Basement Protection
Calgary’s fluctuating weather makes basement flooding a real concern. That’s why we offer installation and maintenance of sump pumps, backwater valves, and other flood protection systems.
These tools help prevent water damage and dry lower levels during heavy rains or rapid snowmelt. We also offer inspections and routine maintenance to ensure your system is always ready to perform when needed.
Water Softeners and Filtration Systems
Hard water is a common issue in Calgary, and it can affect everything from your plumbing to your skin and hair. We provide water softener installation and service to help eliminate mineral buildup, extend the life of your appliances, and improve water quality throughout your home.
Looking for cleaner, better-tasting water straight from the tap? Ask us about whole-home filtration systems that remove chlorine, sediment, and other contaminants.
Plumbing Renovations and New Installations
Are you planning a renovation or new construction project? We work closely with homeowners, builders, and designers to provide plumbing solutions that meet modern standards and your aesthetic preferences.
Whether it’s a kitchen remodel or a brand-new ensuite bathroom, we handle all aspects of plumbing installation with professionalism and care. We focus on smart layouts, efficient systems, and quality materials, ensuring that once your project is complete, everything works exactly as it should.
Why Choose Aquality Plumbing & Heating In Calgary?
Our team is committed to providing honest advice, high-quality workmanship, and courteous service on every job. We show up when we say we will, explain your options clearly, and treat your home with the respect it deserves.
With years of experience serving Calgary homes and businesses, we’ve built a reputation for reliability and excellence that we’re proud of. Plumbing problems can be stressful—but when you call Aquality Plumbing & Heating, you know you’re in good hands.
Let’s Get Your Plumbing Working Perfectly
Whether it’s a dripping faucet or a major installation, we’re here to help. Contact Aquality Plumbing & Heating today to schedule a service call or request an estimate. We’re proud to be your trusted local plumbing team, ready to take on any challenge and keep your systems running smoothly.
At Aquality Plumbing & Heating, we know how welcome the warm weather is after a long Calgary winter. Summer brings backyard gatherings, bike rides, and plenty of outdoor fun, but it can also place extra demand on your home’s plumbing system in Calgary.
The season introduces some unique plumbing challenges that every homeowner should know, from more frequent water usage to weather-related wear and tear. Our team is here to help you spot—and stop—summer plumbing issues before they escalate into costly repairs. Here are the most common problems we see during the warmer months in Calgary.
Clogged Garbage Disposals
Summer meals often involve fresh fruits, vegetables, and barbecued favorite’s great for your taste buds, but not always for garbage disposal.Fibrous veggies like corn husks, celery, greasy leftovers, and fruit pits can easily clog or jam the disposal system.
We recommend scraping food scraps into the compost bin or trash and only using your disposal for soft, small bits of food waste. Always run cold water while operating the disposal to help flush food through the pipes. If your unit is clogged or making strange noises, we can diagnose and repair it quickly and safely.
Backed-Up Sewer Lines
Heavy summer rainstorms are a reality in Calgary, and when they arrive, city sewer systems can get overwhelmed. This can sometimes cause sewer water to back into basements, especially in older homes or where tree roots interfere with sewer lines.
Warning signs include slow-draining sinks, gurgling toilets, and unpleasant odours. Our company offers camera inspections to pinpoint the issue and performs safe, professional sewer line repairs and replacements when needed.
Outdoor Faucet and Hose Bib Leaks
Warmer days mean it’s time to hook up the garden hose—for watering the lawn, rinsing the deck, or filling up splash toys for the kids. But if a hose bib cracked during the winter and you haven’t noticed, you could be dealing with leaks or water damage once you turn it on.
We recommend checking all outdoor faucets for drips, water pooling, or signs of cracking. If anything looks off, we can repair or replace the damaged fixture and ensure your water lines are secure and summer-ready.
The Surprising Hazards of Hot Hose Water
Here’s a fun (and slightly painful) reality many families discover: water left in the garden hose under Calgary’s summer sun can heat up fast. If your kids rush to cool off or the dog bolts toward the hose, they may get scalding water at first squeeze. The same goes for filling the kiddie pool or rinsing off after a day in the yard.
We suggest letting the hose run for a few seconds away from people or pets before aiming it anywhere. It’s a small step that helps prevent burns and keeps everyone safer.
Toilet Troubles from Summer Guests
With kids home from school and guests coming and going, your toilets are working overtime. Extra use often leads to clogs, running water, or leaks that go unnoticed until they cause bigger issues.
Remind everyone in the home to flush only toilet paper and avoid flushing wipes, cotton swabs, or hygiene products. If you hear your toilet running constantly or spot leaks, we can make quick, reliable repairs.
Washing Machine Strain
Summer usually means more washing machine use, between sweaty clothes, camping gear, and post-activity laundry. That extra strain increases the risk of worn-out hoses, leaks, and potential flooding, especially if your laundry room is on an upper floor.
We recommend inspecting your washing machine hoses regularly. If they’re over five years old or showing signs of wear, it’s time for a replacement. Our team can upgrade your hoses and check connections to ensure everything’s working as it should.
Water Heater Wear and Tear
Even in summer, water heaters can get a workout, especially if you have visitors or extra showers after outdoor activities. If your water isn’t getting hot enough or you hear strange popping or hissing sounds from the tank, your heater may need maintenance.
We offer thorough water heater inspections and will advise whether a repair or replacement is the most sensible option for your home. Catching issues early can prevent an unexpected cold shower or major breakdown.
Avoid Plumbing Problems with Proactive Maintenance
Taking a proactive approach is the best way to enjoy your summer without worrying about water damage or plumbing failures. At Aquality Plumbing & Heating, we provide seasonal inspections that help catch small issues before they become major ones.
Whether testing your hose bibs, inspecting drain lines, or checking your water heater, we help you prepare your home for the summer season.
Book Your Summer Service Today
Don’t let plumbing problems put a damper on your summer fun. Call us if you’re noticing signs of trouble or want the peace of mind that your plumbing is in good shape. At Aquality Plumbing & Heating, we proudly serve Calgary homeowners with expert service, transparent advice, and reliable repairs. Schedule your summer plumbing checkup today and enjoy the season with confidence.
What Causes Poly B Piping to Degrade Over Time in Calgary Properties? For many Calgary homeowners, polybutylene piping (polybutylene) is a quiet concern hidden behind walls and under floors. Popular in homes built between the late 1970s and mid-1990s, polybutylene was once considered a breakthrough in plumbing. It was affordable, easy to install, and widely adopted throughout residential construction.
However, over time, Poly B piping has proven less reliable than initially thought. Many properties in Calgary now face the consequences of aging Poly B systems—leaks, water damage, and insurance complications.
As plumbing professionals serving the Calgary area, we’ve seen firsthand how Poly B piping can deteriorate and what steps homeowners can take to address the issue proactively.
Understanding What Is Poly B
Polybutylene piping is a type of plastic plumbing pipe that was marketed as a cost-effective alternative to copper. It was most commonly used for residential water supply lines. Its flexibility and ease of installation made it attractive to builders, especially during Calgary’s housing growth in the ’80s and ’90s.
Unfortunately, while Poly B piping performed well under ideal conditions in early testing, real-world use has revealed significant weaknesses, particularly in Calgary’s unique environment.
Why Poly B Piping Degrades Over Time
Several factors contribute to the degradation of Poly B piping, particularly in Calgary homes:
Chlorine in Municipal Water
One of the most well-documented causes of Poly B failure is chlorine. Calgary’s municipal water contains chlorine as a disinfectant, which is necessary for public health but problematic for Poly B.
Over time, chlorine reacts with the pipe’s inner surface, weakening the plastic and making it more brittle. This degradation can eventually lead to cracks, leaks, or sudden pipe bursts.
While all homes on municipal water have some level of exposure to chlorine, Poly B is uniquely vulnerable to its long-term effects. The higher the chlorine concentration, the faster the degradation process.
High Water Pressure
Calgary homes, especially in specific neighborhoods, may experience high water pressure, which stresses all plumbing materials. Poly B is less resistant to pressure fluctuations than copper or PEX. Over time, high pressure causes increased wear and can contribute to pipe fatigue.
We often recommend homeowners install a pressure-reducing valve if their pressure readings exceed 80 psi. This simple measure can extend the life of any plumbing system and is particularly critical if Poly B is still present.
Poor Installation Practices
When Poly B was commonly installed, proper training and consistent guidelines were sometimes lacking. We’ve seen many homes where the pipe was bent too sharply, improperly secured, or connected with incompatible fittings.
These installation flaws often go unnoticed until they result in failures years later. In some cases, aluminum or plastic fittings were used instead of more reliable copper or brass connections, which can become weak points prone to leaking.
Freezing Temperatures and Thermal Expansion
Calgary’s winter climate poses another risk to Poly B systems. The pipes can be more susceptible to freezing than other materials, especially in poorly insulated or unheated areas like basements, garages, and crawl spaces. Freeze-thaw cycles can cause expansion and contraction, which leads to cracking.
Additionally, thermal expansion due to hot water usage can cause wear at joints or stress at bends over time, especially if the system wasn’t installed with enough slack or flexibility.
UV Exposure
Poly B piping degrades rapidly when exposed to UV light. Although it’s typically installed inside walls or under floors, we’ve encountered cases where sections were exposed to sunlight, particularly in basements with above-grade windows or outdoor utility areas.
Even limited UV exposure can accelerate breakdown, leading to leaks or failures years sooner than expected.
How We Help Calgary Homeowners Deal with Poly B
At Aquality Plumbing & Heating, we’ve helped many local homeowners assess and replace Poly B piping before problems arise. Our first step is always a thorough inspection. We look for wear, discoloration, or stress on the pipe and fittings.
We often recommend proactive replacement in homes with known Poly B installations, especially if leaks or insurance restrictions exist. Replacing Poly B with modern materials like PEX or copper improves reliability, reduces the risk of water damage, and can even increase the value of your home.
Many insurance providers in Calgary are now unwilling to cover homes with active Poly B plumbing, or they impose higher premiums due to the known risks. Upgrading your system may open doors to better coverage.
Don’t Wait for a Leak
The biggest challenge with Poly B is that it can fail without much warning. What looks like a perfectly intact system could be hiding weak points, ready to fail under pressure. Calgary’s water composition and climate only accelerate this risk.
If you suspect your home has Poly B piping or are unsure what type of plumbing you have, we encourage you to contact us. We’ll help you identify the piping material, assess its condition, and plan a solution that protects your home and peace of mind.
At Aquality Plumbing & Heating, we take pride in helping Calgary families maintain safe, reliable plumbing systems. Let’s take the worry out of Poly B—before it becomes a costly emergency.
With so many options available, homeowners often ask: How do I know which plumbing company I can trust? This guide will walk you through the key factors to consider, common plumbing issues in Calgary, and why Aquality Plumbing & Heating has become a trusted name for over 21 years.
Regular maintenance is the key to avoiding unexpected failures, saving money, and ensuring your family always has reliable hot water. 
We provide 
Extra use often leads to clogs, running water, or leaks that go unnoticed until they cause bigger issues.
It was most commonly used for residential water supply lines. 