Plumbing issues are a common occurrence during the winter season, especially in regions subject to prolonged freezing. Homeowners who neglect to protect their home's plumbing system expose themselves to all sorts of potential problems that can severely damage their home. For instance, a frozen pipe can unknowingly crack. Once thawed, the cracked pipe can allow hundreds of gallons of water to escape into your home. Protect yourself from unexpected repair bills by having your plumbing system winterized before the temperatures get really low.
Frozen Pipes
Frozen pipes are the most common winter plumbing issue. They can also be the most harmful. Aside from the fact that you will be without water, frozen pipes can leak once thawed and cause hundreds if not thousands of dollars-worth of damage to your flooring, furniture, walls, baseboard, trim, and cabinetry.
Failing Water Heaters
The demand for hot water rises during the cold winter months. Don't be left out in the cold—have your water heating system serviced before winter arrives—especially if your home has a gas water heating system. Hiring a professional technician to thoroughly inspect, clean and replace worn parts will keep your water heater running at peak efficiency and performance.
Burst Pipes
As temperatures drop below freezing, water trapped inside of your plumbing pipes and fixtures expand and put heavy pressure on pipes. This can lead to a burst pipe, which once ruptured, will dump gallons upon gallons of water in the area of the break. Not only will this waste a valuable resource (and thus, drive up your utility bills), it will also damage your home. These conditions can subject your home to mold and mildew—both of which are harmful to your health.
Frozen Gutters and Spouts
Most folks do not consider their gutter system as part of their home's plumbing. However, when you put some thought into it, gutters and downspouts are devices used to channel water away from your home (similar to a sewer line). As the fall season passes, countless numbers of leaves and debris fall from the trees, then get caught in your gutter system. This can clog your gutters and prevent them from draining properly. After a freeze, any trapped water will expand. Expanding water could potentially damage the gutter and downspouts causing them to leak. Frozen gutters also provide an ideal starting point for the formation of ice dams—and ice dams can damage your roof as well.
Fortunately, these circumstances can be avoided. Protect your home. For answers to your questions, contact The Pink Plumber today.
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