The sub-freezing temperatures associated with winter can wreak havoc on your home’s plumbing system. For instance, in winter, cases of frozen pipes and damaged drains are usually common. To give you an idea, freezing claims account for about 24% of all homeowners’ insurance claims in the US every year, according to Forbes. Fortunately, you can take measures to protect your plumbing system and fixtures against winter-related damage and in turn, minimize your repair and maintenance costs. Otherwise, you might find yourself looking for 24 hour emergency plumbing services in the middle of the night. With the in mind, here’s a look at common winter plumbing problems as the best ways to prepare for emergency plumbing situations this winter.
Common Winter Plumbing Issues
Contents
Below, we list some of the common plumbing issues that occur during the winter season.
- Frozen Pipes: In general, sub-freezing temperatures mean frozen pipes. Outdoor plumbing systems face a higher freezing risk considering the exposure to temperatures lower than those indoors. Worse still, freezing creates the risk of bursting pipes, something that can cause massive water damage if not contained on time.
- Failed Water Heaters: A typical four-person household in the US uses about 65.7 gallons of hot water per day in winter, a quantity way higher than the demands in summer, as per Florida Solar Energy Center (FSEC). The high demand for hot water in winter is due to low temperatures as well as the increased number of guests. This increases the likelihood of overworking the water heater, something that can cause it to fail. An old and worn-out water heater can also fail.
- Leaking Faucets: Due to the increased demand for water, your faucets will also have to handle a lot of pressure in winter. As such, they will likely become loose, worn-out, and leaky.
Tips To Prepare For Emergency Plumbing Situations In Winter
To protect your plumbing system and prepare for emergency plumbing situations this winter, you should:
Have Your Water Pipes And Plumbing Fixtures Insulated
The U.S. Department of Energy recommends insulating both indoor and outdoor pipes in winter. Insulation not only prevents heat loss through conduction but also increases the water temperature by 2⁰F – 4⁰F, which translates to about 3% to 4% in annual energy savings. By preventing heat loss inside the pipes, you will significantly lower the chances of freezing, and hence, bursting of pipes. With this in mind, have a qualified plumber insulate your pipes, giving priority to exposed pipes such as those located outdoors.
Avoid Clogging The Drain
Stagnant water is more likely to freeze than flowing water. As such, avoid clogging your drains to ensure that water flows freely in winter. This will help lower the chances of freezing as well as keep your plumbing system in good condition. To prevent clogging, avoid throwing solid items down the drain. Moreover, in case of a clogged drain, you should hire a certified plumber to investigate and fix the problem.
Get Your Water Heater Serviced
The water heater usually works for more hours in winter compared to other seasons. Be sure to schedule an annual heating system tune-up as well. A failed heater can also cause indoor temperatures to substantially drop and cause pipes to freeze and burst. Therefore, consider calling a professional to come and inspect your water heater, furnace, and any other heating appliances in your home before winter arrives. This will ensure that your heating appliances remain in good condition throughout the cold season and that you get constant access to hot water. Even so, in case your water heater or heating system breaks down in winter, feel free to have a plumber rectify it immediately.
Have Leaks Sealed
With leaking pipes and faucets, you put your home at risk of water damage as well as increased water bills. This is because most bursts start as minor leaks that are either ignored or undetected. It is worth noting that an experienced plumber should always inspect your plumbing system regularly, check out for leaks, and seal them. Inspection is particularly crucial when winter is approaching since that’s when the risk of water damage increases.
Regulate The Thermostat Appropriately
Your furnace may be in good condition, but if you set the thermostat wrongly, your house will freeze and cause emergency plumbing situations as well as jeopardize your family’s health. As such, you should always set your thermostat at 68⁰F in winter to create optimum living conditions in your home, as recommended by the U.S. Department of Energy. In case you don’t know where your thermostat is or how to regulate it, ask a knowledgeable plumber to guide you on this. The plumber can also teach you simple tips on how to maintain your furnace to prevent frequent breakdowns, especially in winter.
Conclusion
The subzero temperatures associated with winter tend to exacerbate plumbing problems and cause new plumbing issues, too, such as frozen pipes. To prepare for emergency plumbing situations this winter, use the tips offered in this article. Importantly, in case you encounter an emergency plumbing situation in winter, be sure to call a professional plumber to come and fix it as soon as possible to prevent further damage.
Call Robinson Plumbing For All Of Your Plumbing Requirements
Contact Robinson Plumbing, one of the most trusted plumbing companies in the Lehigh Valley, for reliable plumbing services. We offer various plumbing services ranging from water heater replacements, whole-house water filter installations, toilet repairs, and replacements, water leak repairs, and more. We always give a wide range of solutions when possible for any plumbing repairs. This allows you to choose the best options for your budget and home.
Find yourself dealing with an unexpected plumbing problem in the middle of the night? No worries! You can count on the expert plumbers at Robinson Plumbing to take care of you. We offer reliable 24-hour emergency plumbing services. You can count on us to get the job done quickly and correctly and, best of all, in an affordable manner.
We proudly offer the most affordable and best plumbing services in the Lehigh Valley area. Our plumbers all have the proper licenses and expertise to ensure your satisfaction. All of our work comes with a guarantee. Contact Robinson Plumbing today and schedule your free estimate.
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