The winter season is here in earnest, all across the United States and Canada—and as the temperatures continue to drop, many homeowners are dealing with seasonal stresses. Do everything you can to keep plumbing woes from making it onto that list. Learn about some of the most serious winter plumbing problems—and what you can do to avoid them.
Problems with the Hot Water Heater
There is nothing less comfortable than jumping into what you think is a nice, hot shower, only to find that the water is icy cold. This is especially maddening when the weather outside is chilly. If your hot water heater isn’t working properly, it’s important to get it remedied ASAP. It may be that you just need to drain sediment deposits, but there could also be a broken heating element or blown pilot pipes. The best way to troubleshoot the problem is to call a seasoned plumber.
Sewer Line Backups
No homeowner ever wants to deal with a septic tank or sewer line backup, but such problems are especially difficult to contend with during the winter. Because pipes are cold, sometimes frozen, the expense required to fix backups can be much more during the winter than it would be during the summer. As such, it is advantageous to have the tank treated and pumped before you start to experience problems.
Clogged Drains
Leaves, debris, and snow can block the gutters in your home, as well as the drains. This causes “ice dams” to form, which can in turn cause leaks and water damage. The best way to avoid these issues is to flush gutters and drains with a hose or else install a gutter guard product.
Outdoor Kitchen Sink Walls
In many homes, the kitchen sink pipes are outside of the wall, so that a window can be installed. Cold elements can cause those pipes to freeze. You can avoid this by opening up the cabinets in your home, allowing warm air to flow and heat up those pipes.
Frozen Pipes
The most common winter plumbing issue of all: Frozen pipes. Exposed pipes can freeze and eventually burst—a majorly costly issue to fix. Prevent it by disconnecting all outside hoses and, if possible, insulating the faucets. Also wrap heat tape around any exposed, external pipes that you can see.
Should any of these winter plumbing problems surface, we’re on call—ready and able to assist home and business owners throughout he Vancouver area!
