Common Winter Plumbing Problems & How to Prevent Them
When it's cold outside, most people retreat indoors where it's safe and warm. But there may be lurking plumbing dangers you're not aware of. Here's what to watch for — and how to winterize before damage strikes.
Winterize Before the Cold Sets In
If the local area is impacted by snow, ice, and freezing rain, it can cause serious plumbing problems that are expensive to repair. However, if a homeowner takes steps to winterize their home's plumbing — alone or with the help of a local plumber — they can avoid serious and expensive damage to the system.
The key to avoiding the most common issues is to know what they are. Keep reading to learn about some of the most common plumbing issues that occur during the winter.
Gutters Full of Debris
Clean Them Before Freezing Weather ArrivesIt is essential for a homeowner to hire someone — or handle the job on their own — to clean out the gutters before frigid weather moves in. In some cases, winter surprises everyone. It can be cool in the morning and freezing in the evening. This is why taking preventative steps is so important.
If there is junk and gunk left behind in the home's gutter system, it can cause serious problems. When ice and snowfall are added to all this debris, it can cause plumbing issues no one expects. Serious water leaks and plumbing system damage can occur, which is why it is essential to take action and clean out the gutters long before freezing weather makes it into the area.
Outdoor Hoses Left Connected
Roll Them Up & Put Them Away for WinterIf a homeowner has any outside hoses, it is best to roll them up and put them away for the winter months.
When a homeowner leaves hoses connected to their outside water supply and freezing weather moves in, it can lead to serious issues. Water may begin to build up and even freeze around the spigots. This can cause the water to expand, which is going to result in the pipes leaking and bursting.
⚠️ Non-Winterized Hoses Are Dangerous
If non-winterized hoses are left outdoors, chances are a homeowner is going to be dealing with many more issues and problems than they expected. Now is the time to put away the hoses before more serious issues occur.
Outdoor Water & Irrigation Systems
Shut Off, Flush & Prevent Freeze DamageWhen the weather turns cold, turn off the water valve to outside faucets and water sources. In October, the grass will usually stop growing. At this point, homeowners can stop investing in lawn care services.
If the homeowner has not yet called a professional to flush out their irrigation system, don't put this off any longer. Be sure to have the system flushed and all water removed at the end of the season.
- Water left in pipes freezes and expands, causing serious damage to pipes and irrigation components
- Most damage won't be seen until spring when the irrigation system is used again
- By then, the damage may be so severe that an entirely new irrigation system may have to be installed
- Turn the water valve to the vertical position to ensure outside fixtures won't keep water "ready to go"
Ice Dams & Icicles
Pretty to Look at — But a Sign of TroubleWhile wintertime offers many pretty things, like the icicles around the roof, they may also be a sign that the home is not ready for cold weather. If there are icicles hanging from the eaves, it may also be an indication that an ice dam is likely to form, which can lead to plumbing problems.
As the moisture dams start to melt, the water is going to seep over the eaves of the roof and create the icicles that are seen. As more and more snow and ice melt, the water that flows to the gutters and on the roof will start to back up behind the dams.
⚠️ Water Has Nowhere to Go But Inside
When ice dams form and water backs up behind them, the water has nowhere to go but inside the home — which is seen as leaks in the ceilings and walls. This can cause significant water damage and lead to costly plumbing and structural repairs.
Break in the Water Line
Frozen Pipes Lead to Burst PipesIf pipes freeze, it is likely that a water line break is not too far away. This is because the water inside the pipes will expand as it freezes. If the pipe that is freezing is full of water, the water has nowhere to go, which means that the pipe will likely be damaged.
It can crack or break, and both these issues are referred to as a burst pipe.
Water Expands
Water in a full pipe has nowhere to go as it freezes and expands.
Pipe Cracks or Breaks
The expanding ice creates enough force to crack or burst the pipe open.
Professional Repair
A plumber can fix the pipe and restore water service to the home.
Pressure Release Valves
Professionals can install valves in main water lines to greatly reduce burst risk.
💡 Pressure Release Valves
The professionals can fix the pipe and install pressure release valves in the main water lines. With these in place, there is a much lower chance that the pipe will burst. Ask your plumber about this preventative measure during your next service visit.
Clogged Drains
More Cooking, More Guests, More ClogsMany homeowners have to deal with clogged drains during the winter months. This is because people are cooking more and because they are inviting more people over to their house, which results in more use of the plumbing system.
If someone notices a clog, they should call a plumber. This is going to help ensure that it does not become a more serious problem or disrupt day-to-day activities. The professionals can handle any potential clog issues that occur and help ensure that the underlying issue is found and eliminated.
Don't Wait to Call a Plumber
When it comes to plumbing issues, there are more than a few that may occur during the winter months. Be sure to keep this information in mind to know about some of the most common problems and why calling a plumber as soon as an issue is seen is such a good idea.
Being informed and knowing what may happen during the winter months will help to prevent serious plumbing issues. Don't underestimate the importance of winterizing a home's plumbing system. This is an investment that is going to be more than worth it in the long run.
⚠️ Winterize Now — Before It's Too Late
Winterizing your plumbing system is one of the most important investments a homeowner can make. The cost of prevention is a fraction of the cost of emergency repairs. Don't wait for freezing weather to surprise you — take action now.
Winter Plumbing Checklist — At a Glance
Winterize Your Plumbing Today.
LaVergne's Plumbing & Heating can help you winterize your home's plumbing system to avoid serious and expensive damage. From gutter-related issues to burst pipes, our experienced team handles it all — and we're available 24/7 for emergencies.