The cold has most definitely set in here in NEPA. Our mornings now start with scraping ice off our windshields, and our first snow has already come, followed by our second, and our third. Winter is officially here. Unfortunately for us, it means the cold. And unfortunately for our plumbing systems, the cold brings a whole snow pile full of issues. Here’s exactly what to look out for, and prepare for, this winter season.
Frozen Pipes
At the tippy top of the list: Frozen Pipes. It doesn’t matter if the pipes are indoors or out, this plumbing problem is a classic winter issue that can lead folks to doing some pretty odd things to prevent it. Outdoor pipes are more prone to freezing if not properly winterized, and the effects of outdoor pipes freezing are usually worse, since these pipes often go unused in the colder months. In the winter its best to add insulation to any outdoor pipes, drain any hose lines, and turn off outdoor water valves.
When it comes to indoor pipes, those too can still freeze, especially in older homes, or in areas where your pipes are closer to the outer wall of your home. You may have been told by your mother to leave the faucets drip when it’s cold out, and as usual, she’s right! In pipes that you know are prone to freezing, leaving the faucet drip ever so slightly will keep things moving enough to prevent the pipes from freezing. You could also insulate your pipes, or try to safely keep them warm.
Drain Troubles
A winter issue that you may not suspect is drain clogging. However, with the holidays coming up in the winter, kitchens get more use than ever, and the kitchen sink definitely takes more use than normal. Be sure to keep your garbage disposal free of fat, grease, oil, and large hard garbage like bones. Cleaning your drain and garbage disposal regularly also helps to prevent issues from arising.
Outdoor drains can also be an issue. Like pipes, outdoor drains are prone to freezing in the winter time. For plastic drains, especially, this can be problematic. Keep your drain free of any debris and buildup, and move snow and ice away from the area.
Water Heater Malfunctions
In the winter your water heater is working overtime. The more and the longer its used, the easier it is for problems to come up. Keeping up with routine maintenance is a great preventative measure to take for your water heater, drain it annually and test to ensure everything is working properly. If you find that your water heater is having issues, try turning up the heat a bit, checking the power and gas supply, or resetting the heaters thermostat.
Winter Weather
The winter brings holiday joy and laughter, but it also brings with it a list of cold weather problems to deal with. But being prepared and being proactive is the best way to ensure that your holidays will be smooth-sailing, and free from plumbing troubles.
At Faulstick Plumbing, we specialize in installs, repairs, and inspections for all of your well, water, and plumbing needs. Our family-owned and operated business has built a reputation as the best-doing things the right way with the customer in mind, every time. Give us a call at 570-992-0447 to discuss your needs today!
