The winter season can cause plumbing problems for homeowners, and it’s important to be aware so you can avoid them and fix them if they arise.
Water Heater Problems
During the winter, water heaters are doing more work to deliver hot water throughout your home, especially if you have family over for the holidays. This can sometimes cause the water heater to struggle to keep up with the frequent need for hot water.
How to Avoid it: Perform regular maintenance checks on your water heater, and make sure your tank water heater is getting drained annually. You can also test the pressure relief valve to make sure it is correctly operating. If needed, you can purchase a water heater blanket from any home improvement store. This blanket will help prevent energy being lost from your tank water heater.
How to Fix it: To help the water heater meet the demand for hot water, you can increase the temperature on its thermostat. Warning - To prevent scalding, do not exceed 125 degrees. If the water heater is still struggling, check the gas or electric supply, or call a professional.
Frozen Pipes
Pipes throughout your home may freeze in uninsulated areas. This can cause cracks, leaks, and even burst pipes.
How to Avoid it: When you know the temperature is going to drop, leave your faucets dripping to keep water moving and avoid the buildup of pressure. You can also open up your cabinet doors under sinks to allow heat to enter and keep the pipes warm. Ensure that pipes in your attic and basement are properly insulated.
How to Fix it: Shut off your home’s main water valve to avoid flooding. Leave affected faucets open as you attempt repairs. Call a professional to repair or replace the pipes as soon as possible to avoid water damage to your home.
Clogged Kitchen Drains
With the possibility of more cooking and guests in your home, your drain and garbage disposal can easily become clogged.
How to Avoid it: Be mindful of what you and your guests are putting down the drain and garbage disposal. Cooking oils, bones, fat, and other similar substances should be thrown away instead. Run cold water as you use the garbage disposal to help the machine run smoothly and avoid clogging it. Ensure the drain has a stopper to catch any large debris, and frequently clean it out.
How to Fix it: Shut off the power to the garbage disposal using BOTH the wall switch and the breaker. Use tools to clear any debris and never stick your fingers or hand into it. Call a professional if you need assistance.
Sump Pump Issues
During the winter, sump pumps work overtime due to the melting of snow and ice. This may cause it to backup if it freezes or clogs.
How to Avoid it: Routinely clean the sump pump during the fall and leading up to freezing temperatures. Ensure your basement is heated to prevent it from freezing. Effective gutter systems and outdoor drainage will reduce the workload on the sump pump.
How to Fix it: Unplug the unit and cut the power at the breaker. Remove any snow or ice that may be blocking the unit’s exit line. Empty the sump pump, or melt any blockages. Call a professional for any assistance, or if you are unable to remove a blockage.
These issues may still arise even if you are prepared to avoid them. With over 20 years of experience, Dan’s Plumbing Services is trained to solve these problems and can help get your plumbing back up and running this winter! Contact us today by phone at (779) 529-5100, or on our website. We can’t wait to hear from you and assist you with any of your winter plumbing needs!
