9 Winter Plumbing Problems & How to Prevent Them
Cold weather brings unique plumbing challenges. Know what to watch for, what you can do yourself, and when it's time to call the pros at LaVergne's Plumbing.
Cold Weather Hits Your Plumbing Hard
Plumbing problems often accompany cold weather. When an issue arises, homeowners might attempt to fix it themselves — but sometimes professional help is the safest and most effective option. What steps can you take to avoid these issues in the first place? And who should you call when a problem gets out of hand?
LaVergne's Plumbing provides the answers. Here are eight common winter plumbing problems, how to prevent them, and what to do when they strike.
Frozen Outdoor Pipes
Often Burst Before You NoticeFrozen pipes are a major concern when temperatures drop. Unfortunately, outdoor pipes that supply spigots often burst where homeowners don't notice the problem right away. By the time the damage is visible, it can be extensive.
If an outdoor pipe freezes, contact us immediately. We'll thaw the pipe and check it for any hidden leaks or other damage. Our team can handle plumbing installation or repairs to get you back up and running.
Frozen Indoor Pipes
Uninsulated Areas & Exterior WallsInterior pipes may also freeze, especially in uninsulated areas and along exterior walls. If the water flow to a fixture decreases, a frozen pipe is probably the issue.
- If a pipe bursts, the home could sustain significant water damage
- Professional thawing prevents cracking and additional leaks
- A plumber will inspect the pipe and make any necessary repairs
- DIY thawing risks include uneven heating that causes pipe failure
Clogged Drains & Toilets
Holiday Guests + Extra Food = OverloadHolidays often mean an abundance of food and guests. The excess food and visitors can lead to clogged drains, as the plumbing system has to work harder than usual to keep up with demand.
Garbage Disposal
Put minimal items down the disposal. Run cold water during use and 30 seconds after.
Toilet Clogs
Only flush toilet paper. Place a trashcan in every bathroom for guests.
Quick Fix: Plunger
Keep a plunger in each bathroom. Use carefully — dirty water may splash back.
Disposal Jam
Use kitchen tongs to remove obstacles. Wait 15 min, then press the reset button.
Malfunctioning Water Heater
More Stress During Winter MonthsWater heaters undergo more stress during the winter months, thanks to colder inlet water temperatures and visitors to the home. Preventive maintenance is the best defense against an unexpected breakdown.
Annual Drain
Drain the unit annually to remove sediment buildup from the tank.
Pressure Relief Valve
Test the valve regularly to ensure it releases pressure properly.
Insulate Pipes
Insulate inlet and outlet pipes to prevent freezing and retain heat.
Heater Blanket
Install a water heater blanket on a tank heater to reduce energy loss.
- Check the power supply — confirm the breaker hasn't tripped
- Reset the thermostat's limit switch — it may have tripped due to overheating
- If neither fix works, call us — we'll diagnose the problem and recommend repair or replacement
Frozen Outdoor Drains
Plastic Expands & Contracts with TemperatureOutdoor drains often freeze during the winter, as plastic expands and contracts with temperature changes. When ice builds up, plastic drains can crack or break entirely.
Sump Pump Failure
Increased Use as Snow & Ice MeltSump pumps see increased use during the winter months, as snow and ice melt resulting in excess water. A sump pump system might back up due to a clog or freezing, leading to potential basement flooding.
- Remove debris and grime from the sump pit regularly
- Test the pump regularly to ensure it functions properly
- Keep the heat on where the sump pump is located so the pit and pipes don't freeze
- Direct water away from the home by installing outdoor drains and properly routing gutter drainage
💡 LaVergne's Sump Pump Services
Contact us for a sump pump service. We can remove blockages from the intake and discharge lines, insulate and bury the discharge hose for added protection, and install a larger discharge hose to minimize the risk of freezing.
⚠️ If Your Sump Pump Freezes
Turn off the power supply and check the discharge line outlet for blockages. Melt any clogs using heat and empty water from the sump pit. Disconnect the drain line and run boiling water through it until water flows freely. Reconnect the line before restoring power. If in doubt, call a professional.
Frozen Well Pump
Address Immediately to Restore WaterWell pumps often freeze during cold weather if they aren't situated deep enough in the ground. The homeowner must address this issue immediately to restore water to the residence.
Contact a plumber right away to prevent the body of the pump from cracking. If the pump cracks, it will need to be replaced entirely. Prompt action may prevent this costly damage.
Basement Flooding
When the Snow Melts, Water Finds a Way InWhen the snow melts, homeowners might find their basement floods with water. Prevention starts well before winter arrives — ideally during the fall months.
Clear Gutters
Keep gutters and outdoor drains free of debris to reduce flood risk.
Inspect Foundation
Check foundation and basement walls in the fall to find and fix leaks early.
Test Sump Pump
Ensure it's working before winter so it's ready when snow melts.
Professional Help
Work with pros to address water damage and prevent future flooding.
⚠️ Always Act Fast
Always take prompt action if there is a plumbing problem. Water can do significant damage in very little time. Our team remains available 24 hours a day to provide plumbing services. Don't hesitate to reach out — we fix any plumbing issue quickly and correctly.
All 8 Problems — At a Glance
24/7 Emergency Plumbing Service.
Family-owned and operated, LaVergne's Plumbing offers personalized service and impeccable attention to detail. Every technician undergoes a drug test and background check for your safety. Available around the clock — because plumbing emergencies don't wait.