*This is a collaborative post.
When temperatures drop, your home’s plumbing system may face challenges unique to winter. As a homeowner, you've probably experienced some of these problems, or at least heard the horror stories from others. Winter plumbing problems can range from a minor inconvenience to downright catastrophic. So, how can you stay ahead of the curve and protect your home? Let’s talk about seven common plumbing problems during the colder months and what you can do about them.
1. Pipes freeze
This is the most important thing. Frozen pipes are more than just an inconvenience; if they burst, they can cause serious damage. When water freezes, it expands and the pressure can cause pipes to burst or crack. Fixing a burst pipe is not a DIY task, this is where you absolutely need a professional plumber, e.g. Milestone Electrical, Air Conditioning and Plumbing Repair the damage and make sure your pipes are properly insulated. The key to avoiding frozen pipes is prevention: Keep the temperature constant in your home, insulate pipes in vulnerable areas like basements or crawl spaces, and leave faucets dripping on cold nights to keep the water flowing.
2. Clogged drain pipe
Winter brings more than just snow; it also brings heavier indoor activities. Cooking a big meal or hosting a holiday party can mean more grease, food particles, and debris making its way into your gutters. If the weather is cold, the grease can solidify, causing stubborn clogs. Best defense? Pay attention to what is being washed in the sink, use a strainer to collect food particles, and avoid pouring grease or oil down the drain. If you notice slow drainage or hear a gurgling sound, it's time to take action before a small clog turns into a big problem.
3. Water heater failure
In the winter, your water heater will work overtime. The colder the water entering the system, the harder it will be for the heater to operate to reach a certain temperature. Over time, sediment buildup in the tank reduces efficiency, leaving you with a lukewarm shower when you need a steaming shower most. Regular maintenance, such as annual water heater flushing, can help. If your heater hasn't had an inspection in years, winter is a good reminder to get it done. No one likes to take a cold shower when it’s already freezing outside!
4. Broken outdoor faucet or hose
Do you connect a garden hose to an outdoor faucet? This is a common oversight, but one that can lead to big problems. Water left in hoses or outside pipes can freeze, causing pressure build-up and potential explosions. Simple solution? Disconnect all hoses before freezing weather arrives and turn off water to outdoor faucets if possible. For added protection, consider faucet covers, they are inexpensive and can save you expensive repairs.
5. Clogged sewers
When the ground freezes, tree roots may seek out sewer pipes for heat and moisture, causing clogs. Also, all the extra holiday cooking and household activities can cause an overloaded sewer system. A clogged sewer line shouldn't be ignored—it's dirty, smelly, and can cause major damage if not addressed promptly. Watch for signs like multiple clogged drains at the same time, foul odors, or slow drainage throughout the house. If you suspect a clog, call a professional to investigate and correct the problem.
6. Low water pressure
low water pressure It's annoying any time of year, but it's especially frustrating in the winter when you want to enjoy a hot shower. In some cases, this is due to frozen pipes, but sometimes it can be related to leaks caused by cold weather weakening the ductwork. Check for obvious leaks around the pipes or water accumulation in unusual places. If you can't find the cause, it's worth hiring a plumber to make sure there's no hidden problem.
7. Sewage pump failure
If your home has a sump pump, winter can be a tricky time. Frozen drain pipes can prevent your pump from functioning properly, which can lead to basement flooding when the snow begins to melt. Additionally, if the pump itself freezes, it cannot do its job. To avoid this, check the drain line and make sure there is no ice or debris on it. A sump pump cover or insulation can also help prevent freezing. Regular testing is crucial, it’s best to know if something is working before you actually need it.
Take control before winter sets in
Winter plumbing problems don’t have to catch you off guard. With a little preparation and attention, many of these problems can be avoided or minimized. Start by inspecting lines, draining outdoor hoses and scheduling water heater adjustments. Keep an eye on drains and sewer lines and call a plumber immediately if you notice a problem.
Winter can bring its fair share of challenges, but with proactive care, you can keep your pipes running smoothly and enjoy the season without worrying about burst or frozen pipes.
