Updated: 02/12/2024
As winter’s cold embrace settles in, it brings with it a unique set of challenges for homeowners, particularly when it comes to plumbing. The plummeting temperatures and harsh weather conditions can wreak havoc on your home’s plumbing system, leading to a range of issues that are both inconvenient and potentially costly. From the dreaded frozen pipes to the strain on your water heater, understanding these winter-specific problems is essential for any homeowner looking to navigate the season without unexpected disruptions.
In this article, we’ll explore some of the most common winter plumbing problems, delving into the causes, consequences, and, most importantly, the preventative measures you can take to protect your home. Whether you’re a new homeowner or a seasoned resident, this guide will equip you with the knowledge and tips needed to ensure your plumbing system remains functional and efficient throughout the cold months.
Macungie Plumber Discusses Common Wintertime Plumbing Problems
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When the temperature drops outside, there are common plumbing issues that you should look out for.
While DIY plumbing repairs may seem straightforward, the complexity of plumbing systems makes them unsuitable for amateur handling. Incorrect fixes can worsen issues, leading to costly damages. Plumbing requires specific skills and tools, making it prudent to seek professional help to ensure safe and effective solutions.
If you start experiencing any of these common plumbing problems, you should contact a licensed plumber. Once again, since the plumbing in your home is a complex and delicate system, plumbing repairs should not be DIY projects.
Frozen Water Pipes & Prevention
One of the most common wintertime plumbing issues is frozen pipes. When the temperature outside drops below freezing, the water in the pipes can freeze. Since water expands when it freezes, it can cause the pipes to burst. If this happens, it can result in a costly, very destructive flood in the home.
During freezing spells, it is a good idea to leave a steady drip of water running for your faucets. Since running water won’t freeze, your pipes will be safe. If you forget to do this and nothing comes out when you turn on your faucet, you should contact a licensed plumber immediately. Also, talk to a plumber about what preventative steps you can take in case you forget again. They may suggest insulating your pipes and other effective plumbing strategies.
Poor Boiler Performance & Associated Problems
During the cold winter months, your boiler is put under enormous strain. If it hasn’t been tuned up and maintained, it can break down at the worst possible time.
Before the heating season begins, it is a good idea to have a licensed plumber come out and inspect your heater to make sure that it is ready for the heating season. If you fail to do so and your home is not as warm as you need it to be, or your energy costs are unusually high, you should contact a plumber to diagnose and repair the problem. The sooner you have this done, the sooner your home will be warm.
Wintertime Water Heater Issues
During the winter, when the temperature outside is below freezing, your water heater will need to work extra hard, putting a great deal of strain on the unit. If you haven’t had your water heater maintained in some time, it can affect your plumbing. If you find that you have no hot water or if the flow of hot water is very low, you should contact a plumber immediately. The best way to avoid this type of issue is to have your water heater maintained regularly.
Failing Sump Pump Issues
Sump pumps are essential during the winter.
When the snow starts to melt, it can easily cause a flood in your basement or crawlspace. When your sump pump is functioning correctly, it will pump the water from these areas, saving your thousands of dollars in the cost to repair the damage from the water.
If your sump pump is not working properly when the snowy season begins, you should contact a plumber immediately to make the necessary repairs. If you wait to call a plumber, and there is a major snowstorm, you will regret it. Just search for “plumber near me” to find a reputable plumbing company in your area.
Holiday-Related Toilet Clogs
If you ask any plumber, they will tell you that most of their clogged toilet calls come during the holiday season.
If you have friends and family members over the house during the holidays, it will put added strain on your toilet. If you have a newer toilet, a plumber will need to come in and remove the clog. Hiring a professional is the best way to be sure that the clog has been completely removed.
If you have an older toilet, you should consider an upgrade. Not only will an upgraded toilet prevent clogs in the future, but it will also save money on your water bill. Most new toilets are designed to conserve water.
Conclusion
Winter can be hard on your plumbing system. It is crucial that you pay particular attention to your plumbing so that you can contact a licensed plumber when necessary. The longer plumbing issues are ignored, the more destruction they can cause.
Today is the time to prepare your home and plumbing for the winter season.
The best way to do that is to contact Robinson Plumbing. We provide fast and reliable plumbing services, including repairs, replacements, and maintenance.
Call Robinson Plumbing For Superior Plumbing Services
Contact Robinson Plumbing, a trusted Lehigh Valley company, for a range of reliable services like drain clogs, water heater replacements, toilet repairs, and more. We provide multiple solutions to suit your home and budget for any repair or replacement needs.
Facing an unexpected plumbing issue? Robinson Plumbing’s expert team offers same-day emergency services, ensuring quick, correct, and affordable solutions.
Robinson Plumbing, known for being the most affordable plumbing company in the Lehigh Valley, ensures customer satisfaction with licensed plumbers and guaranteed work. Schedule your free estimate with us today.
Call us today at (610) 351-9889 or contact us for any questions that you might have! Click the link to view our service area.
Some of the areas we service include Alburtis, Emmaus, Macungie, Trexlertown, and these zip codes: 18011, 18049, 18062, 18087 as well as all surrounding areas in Lehigh County, Pennsylvania.
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