Common Winter Plumbing Problems Every Homeowner Should Know

As the temperatures drop and winter settles in, freezing temperatures can bring problems for your plumbing. Cold weather puts extra strain on pipes, water heaters, and fixtures, often leading to inconvenient and costly problems.

From frozen pipes to water heater failures, it’s important to be aware of common plumbing issues that arise during winter. If you know what to look for, you can stay prepared and protect your home’s plumbing system this winter.

Frozen Pipes

As temperatures plummet during the winter months, one of the most common plumbing issues homeowners face is frozen pipes. When water inside pipes freezes, it can cause the pipe to expand, leading to cracks or even bursts. This is especially a concern in areas where the temperature drops significantly below freezing for extended periods.

Pipes located in unheated spaces like basements, attics, or crawl spaces, as well as those along exterior walls, are particularly vulnerable. The risk of freezing is even higher for outdoor pipes, garden hoses, or sprinkler systems, which can quickly freeze when exposed to freezing air or wind.

Frozen Indoor Pipes

To prevent frozen pipes indoors, start by ensuring that all uninsulated areas are properly sealed and insulated. Insulating pipes in attics, crawl spaces, and garages can help protect them from the cold. On especially cold days and nights, you can keep cabinet doors open under sinks, especially in exterior walls, to allow warm air to circulate around the pipes.

You should also let faucets drip slightly during extreme cold spells to keep water moving through the pipes, reducing the risk of freezing. In addition, maintain a consistent temperature throughout your home, even at night, to prevent drastic fluctuations that could lead to freezing pipes.

Frozen Outdoor Pipes

For outdoor pipes, the best defense is proper insulation and preparation before the cold sets in.

• Disconnect garden hoses from exterior faucets and drain any water left inside, as standing water can freeze and damage the hose and faucet.
• Install insulated covers on outdoor spigots to shield them from freezing temperatures.
• If you have a sprinkler system, it’s crucial to have it winterized by a professional to avoid damage to the pipes.
• If you expect extremely cold weather, consider shutting off the water supply to exterior pipes and draining them to prevent any potential freezing.

Clogged Drains

Clogged drains are more common during the winter months due to colder temperatures and changes in household habits. As the weather cools, grease and fats from cooking, especially holiday meals, can solidify and cause blockages in kitchen drains.

In bathrooms, hair, soap scum, and other debris tend to build up more quickly when people spend more time indoors. Cold temperatures can also cause pipes to contract, making it harder for water to flow freely and increasing the likelihood of clogs.

To prevent drain issues, avoid pouring grease or oils down the kitchen sink by disposing of them in the trash, and use drain catchers to prevent hair from going down the bathroom drain. Regularly flushing drains with hot water can help keep grease and soap from building up.

Consider scheduling a professional drain cleaning before the winter sets in for an extra layer of protection. This can ensure your plumbing system is ready for the colder months.

Basement Flooding Due to Snowmelt

Basements are particularly vulnerable to flooding during the winter thaw due to snowmelt. When heavy snowfall accumulates throughout the winter, it can create significant amounts of water once the temperatures rise. As the snow melts, the water can seep into the ground, increasing the water table around your home’s foundation.

If your basement is not properly sealed or there are drainage issues, this melted snow water can find its way into your home, leading to flooding. In areas where the ground is already frozen, the water has fewer places to go, and it can quickly pool around your foundation, increasing the risk of seepage into the basement.

Seal Your Foundation

The first step in preventing basement flooding due to snowmelt is to ensure that your home’s foundation is properly sealed. Check for cracks or gaps in the foundation walls and seal them to prevent water from entering.

Ensure Proper Drainage

Proper drainage around the house is also essential. Ensure that your gutters and downspouts are clear of debris so that melting snow and rainwater can flow freely from the foundation. Extending downspouts at least 4 to 6 feet from your home can help direct water away from the basement. Grading the land around your home to slope away from the foundation can also help prevent water pooling near your walls.

Install a Sump Pump

Another precaution you can take is installing a sump pump in your basement. A sump pump can automatically remove any water that enters the basement, preventing it from accumulating and causing damage.

If you already have a sump pump, ensure it’s in good working condition, with the battery charged and the pump free of debris. In areas where snowmelt is particularly heavy, consider installing a French drain system, which helps divert water from around the foundation into a designated drainage area.

Water Heater Problems

During the winter, your water heater works harder to maintain a steady supply of hot water, which can sometimes lead to malfunctions. Cold weather can cause the water entering your heater to be colder than usual, requiring the system to work overtime to heat it to the desired temperature. This extra strain can reveal underlying issues such as sediment buildup in the tank, which reduces efficiency, or problems with the thermostat or heating elements.

To keep your water heater running smoothly during the winter months, it’s important to schedule regular maintenance, such as flushing the tank to remove sediment and checking the anode rod to prevent corrosion. Additionally, setting your thermostat to 120°F can help avoid overheating, reduce energy costs, and ensure the heater isn’t overworked.

Get Your Home Winter-ready with Rochester Plumbing & Heating

As winter approaches, it’s the perfect time to ensure your home is ready for the colder months ahead. Rochester Plumbing & Heating can help prepare your home by inspecting and maintaining your plumbing systems, including water heaters, pipes, and drains, to prevent costly repairs and discomfort.

Our expert team will ensure everything is running smoothly, keeping your home safe and warm all season long. Contact us today to schedule your winter preparation and enjoy peace of mind this winter.