Winter can be tough on your home's plumbing system as cold temperatures and freezing conditions often lead to issues that can cause major headaches for homeowners. Fortunately, you can avoid many common winter plumbing problems by taking simple preventive steps. These include insulating pipes, sealing air leaks, and keeping your home consistently warm enough.
Being aware of potential issues helps to spot and fix them early, saving you time, money, and stress during the colder months. This guide will outline common winter plumbing problems to help keep your pipes flowing smoothly all season long.
Cold weather can wreak havoc on your home's plumbing system, with frozen pipes and other issues leading to costly repairs if not addressed properly.
Water expands when it freezes, putting pressure on pipes and causing them to burst. The freezing process starts when temperatures drop below 32°F (0°C). As the water cools, it becomes denser and sinks, creating a cycle that can quickly freeze an entire pipe.
Pipes in unheated areas like basements, attics, and exterior walls are most at risk. Copper pipes are also more likely to burst than PVC pipes because copper contracts when cold, making it more brittle.
In addition to frozen pipes, outdoor faucets can freeze and crack too if not properly drained. This can lead to leaks when you turn them on in spring. Water heaters can also break down as they work harder in winter, while cold ground can cause underground pipes to shift and crack.
Meanwhile, clogged drains can be more common in winter and this is partly due to increased indoor cooking and partly because of how cold affects grease and fats.
Insulation is key to preventing frozen pipes as it keeps the heat in your pipes, even when temperatures drop. Foam pipe insulation is an easy and cheap option but you can also use heat tape, which uses electricity to keep pipes warm.
Don't forget to insulate your water heater as this can help it run more efficiently and save you money on energy bills. Proper insulation can also help prevent condensation on cold water pipes, reducing the risk of water damage and mold growth in your home.
Taking care of your plumbing before winter hits can save you from costly repairs. Here are key steps to protect your pipes and fixtures.
Check your water heater before the cold sets in and flush it to remove sediment buildup. Next, test the pressure relief valve and get it fixed or replaced if it is not working correctly. Finally, set the temperature to 120°F (49°C) as this temperature is hot enough for most uses and prevents scalding.
You can also wrap the tank with an insulation blanket to keep the water hot and reduce energy use.
On very cold nights, let faucets drip as this keeps water moving and makes freezing less likely. If pipes freeze, turn on the faucet and use a hair dryer to thaw them. Start near the faucet and work your way down. Never use an open flame on your pipes. You should also know where your main water shutoff valve is so that if a pipe bursts, you can turn it off immediately.
As previously stated, make sure to insulate pipes in cold areas like attics and crawl spaces using foam pipe insulation or heating tape.
Here are several things to remember to protect your outdoor fixtures in winter:
Let's look at how to fix common plumbing problems during winter to keep your pipes flowing smoothly.
Clogged drains can be a hassle, so to clear them, try using a plunger first, and If that doesn't work, use a drain snake. For tougher clogs, you can make a DIY drain cleaner by mixing baking soda and vinegar, and then pouring it down the drain. Let it sit for an hour, then flush with hot water.
To prevent clogs:
Garbage disposals can also clog and you should avoid putting in fibrous foods or bones. If it jams, use the wrench that came with it to turn the blades manually.
If a pipe bursts, turn off the main water valve and open faucets to drain the remaining water. You should call a plumber to make the repairs as doing it yourself could lead to bigger issues. Remember to check your pressure relief valve yearly and replace it if needed as this a faulty valve can also lead to burst pipes.
To clean up water damage:
If your home is without hot water, you should first check the pilot light if you have a gas heater to confirm it is on, the flame is blue, and it is not flickering. For electric heaters, the heating element might be broken and you will need to have it inspected by a professional.
Strange noises from your water heater often mean sediment buildup which is why you should flush the tank yearly. If the water has a rusty color, the tank may be corroding and it is time for a replacement.
Speak to us today if you are having trouble with burst pipes or a faulty water heater for a speedy resolution.
