Dead-of-Winter Plumbing Woes

It feels like technology seems to fail us when we need it most – in the case of cold winters, heating and plumbing systems tend to bite the dust just when the weather is at its most frigid. Many of these issues can be attributed to the additional stress that the cold weather puts on pipes and water heaters.
Here are three common plumbing issues people experience during the winter and the steps you can take to prevent them from happening to you.

Three Common Winter Plumbing Issues

• • Exposed pipes freezing and bursting – Frozen exposed piping is one of the most common plumbing problems homeowners face. Whether the exposed pipe is outside or within your home, any frigid air that reaches exposed pipes can freeze, warp and crack them easily. You can take care of this nuisance by taking freeze prevention steps before winter arrives. Cover exposed pipes with insulation and turn off outside water completely with shut-off valves. Examine your home for cracks in walls, the foundation or anywhere near exposed pipes. Even the tiniest concentration of freezing air flowing past or on an exposed pipe can cause it to crack, so be diligent when identifying problem spots. Open cabinets and other coverings to allow heated air to move freely in the home, as trapped cold air can also wreak havoc on your pipes.
  • Loss of water heating – There’s nothing worse than your water heater malfunctioning in the dead of winter. Stay on top of things by servicing your system before winter arrives each year. The increased use of hot water during the winter places much more strain on your system. Alleviate the strain by spacing out your showers, especially if you and your family take showers after each other on busy mornings.

Experts believe a good 10 minutes between showers is sufficient time for the water to keep warm and prevent strain on your system. You can also turn up your thermostat a few degrees to ensure you’re entering a warm environment when you step out of the shower, as most people turn shower temperatures up because the air outside the shower is much colder during the winter.

• Poor heating and heating retention – Regardless of what type of heating system you have, it’s best to have it checked before winter’s arrival and ensure it can handle your heating needs throughout the coldest days and nights of the season. A key aspect to quality heating is whether your home is properly insulated. Insulation can keep chilly air out and prevent warm air from dissipating through walls. Schedule an insulation inspection or installation if you haven’t already had it upgraded. Insulation will reduce the strain on your heating system, saving you money on heating costs while keeping your home’s interior nice and toasty.

Prepare Your Home for Winter with Help from the Professionals at South West Plumbing

South West Plumbing will never leave you out in the cold with exemplary plumbing and heating services and much more for your winter heating needs. Our certified plumbers and technicians have the necessary training to execute all projects with expertise.

South West’s 24/7 emergency services are what our clients depend on in their times of need, whether their plumbing malfunctions in the dead of night or the early hours of the morning. All costs are presented upfront before any work begins, as we work by the job instead of by the hour.

Whether you’re having an issue with your heating or need your plumbing examined or repaired, we guarantee our South West plumbers will get the job done right the first time. Contact us today at (206) 210-3268!