Prevent Winter Plumbing Issues: 5 Tips to Protect Your Home from blocked drain
5 Winter Plumbing Emergencies and How to Prevent Them
Winter can be harsh on your home’s plumbing, causing common emergencies that are often preventable with the right measures. At ACW Drains, we want to help you avoid these issues and keep your home in top shape throughout the colder months. Here’s a detailed guide on the most frequent winter plumbing emergencies and how you can prevent them.
1) Frozen Pipes
One of the most common winter plumbing issues is frozen pipes. Water inside your pipes can freeze and expand, leading to burst pipes and costly repairs. This issue can affect both interior and exterior pipes, particularly in unheated areas like basements, lofts, or garages.
How to Prevent Frozen Pipes
- Insulate all pipes in unheated areas.
- Install an insulation jacket around your water tank.
- Leave your heating on a low setting if you're away from home for extended periods.
- Turn off your water supply and drain the system before leaving on a holiday.
For additional tips on avoiding pipe issues, visit our Blocked Drains page. Regular maintenance can go a long way in preventing major disruptions.
2) Water Heater Malfunction
During the winter, your water heater works overtime to meet household demands. This often leads to system malfunctions, especially if your heater hasn’t been serviced in a while. Components such as the thermostat, heating coils, or pressure valve are more likely to fail in cold weather.
How to Prevent Water Heater Failures
- Schedule an annual water heater inspection.
- Check your water heater’s age and replace it if it’s nearing the 10-12 year mark.
- Proactively replace small parts like the thermostat and heating coils before they fail.
For information on how we can help with your draincare needs and repairs, check out our services here.
3) Leaking Water Lines
Freezing temperatures can cause water lines to leak, especially if the pipes are old or deteriorating. Leaks may go unnoticed for weeks, leading to significant water damage in your home.
How to Prevent Leaks
- Get a comprehensive plumbing inspection before the cold weather hits.
- Replace any worn-out or damaged pipes.
- Insulate pipes to prevent freezing and bursting.
For more guidance, our team at ACW Drains can provide CCTV drain surveys to assess the health of your pipes.
4) Blocked Drains
The holidays often lead to increased household usage, and this can result in blocked drains. Fat, grease, and even bits of food can block sinks, while non-flushable items like wipes can clog toilets.
How to Prevent Blocked Drains
- Avoid pouring grease or fat down the sink.
- Flush only toilet paper and waste.
- Install drain traps to catch debris before it enters your pipes.
If you experience an issue, we offer expert drain unblocking services.
5) Outdoor Drain Damage
Outdoor drains can freeze in winter, leading to serious property damage and expensive repairs. These drains are more vulnerable to freezing, especially if they are made of plastic or other materials that expand and contract in fluctuating temperatures.
How to Prevent Outdoor Drain Damage
- Add insulation around external pipes and drains.
- Shut off outdoor water supplies when not in use.
- Consider upgrading older plastic drains to more durable materials.
Regular maintenance of outdoor drains is essential. For more details, see our Gullies page.
External Resources
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
What causes frozen pipes in winter?
Frozen pipes are a common winter plumbing issue caused by extremely low temperatures. When water in the pipes freezes, it expands and can lead to pipe bursts, resulting in significant damage.
How can I prevent my pipes from freezing during winter?
To prevent frozen pipes, insulate all pipes located in unheated areas of your home. Additionally, consider using insulation jackets specifically designed for plumbing.
What should I do if my water heater malfunctions in winter?
If your water heater malfunctions during winter, it may be working overtime due to increased demand. Schedule an annual inspection to ensure it's functioning properly and check for any needed repairs.
How can I prevent leaks in my water lines during cold weather?
To prevent leaks in water lines during freezing temperatures, get a comprehensive plumbing inspection before the cold weather sets in. This helps identify any vulnerabilities that could lead to leaks.
What are some common causes of blocked drains during winter?
Blocked drains often occur during winter due to increased household usage, especially around the holidays. Grease and fat poured down the sink can contribute significantly to drain blockages.
How can I protect my outdoor drains from damage in winter?
To protect outdoor drains from freezing and potential damage, add insulation around external pipes and drains. Additionally, shut off outdoor water sources when not in use.