Common Winter Plumbing Issues and How to Avoid Them

As winter approaches, the cold weather can bring about a whole host of plumbing problems that many homeowners across Norwich are unprepared for. From frozen pipes to blocked drains, these issues can cause serious damage if not addressed early on. But the good news? Most winter plumbing problems can be avoided with a bit of preparation and maintenance.

Read on to discover the most common winter plumbing issues and practical tips to help you keep things running smoothly this season:

Frozen Pipes

One of the most common (and costly) winter plumbing issues is frozen pipes. When the temperature drops, the water inside your pipes can freeze causing the pipe to expand and potentially burst. This can lead to serious water damage and expensive repairs.

To prevent pipes from freezing, insulate any exposed pipes, especially those in unheated areas like garages, basements or attics. You can use foam pipe insulation or even heating tape to keep them warm. If you’re heading out of town, set your thermostat to at least 13°C to keep your home warm enough to avoid pipe problems.

Clogged Drains

As the weather turns colder drains can become more prone to clogging, particularly in the kitchen. This is often due to increased cooking during the holiday season, where grease, fat and food scraps make their way down the drain. Cold temperatures cause fats to harden quickly leading to blockages in your pipes.

Avoid pouring fats, oils or food down the sink at all costs. Instead, let them cool and dispose of them in the bin. It’s also a good idea to use a drain strainer to catch any food particles before they go down the drain. If your drain does get clogged, avoid chemical drain cleaners, they can damage your pipes. A simple solution of hot water and baking soda followed by vinegar can usually clear minor blockages.

Water Heater Failure

Your water heater works overtime in the winter to keep your home supplied with hot water. With the added strain, it’s not uncommon for water heaters to break down during the cold months, leaving you without hot water just when you need it most.

The best way to prevent water heater issues is to schedule an annual maintenance check before winter sets in. This can help identify any potential issues and make sure the unit is functioning efficiently. Also, consider lowering the water heater’s thermostat to 120°F (49°C) to prevent overheating and extend its lifespan.

Burst Outdoor Taps and Hoses

Outdoor taps and garden hoses are particularly vulnerable to winter temperatures. Water left in the hose or tap can freeze and expand, causing the hose or the tap itself to burst, potentially leading to flooding when temperatures rise again.

Disconnect and drain garden hoses before the first freeze. Make sure to turn off any outdoor water supply lines and drain the tap to prevent any water from freezing inside. If you have outdoor taps that you need to use over the winter, install a frost-proof tap or cover it with an insulated bib to protect it from freezing temperatures.

Leaky Taps and Pipes

Leaky taps or minor cracks in pipes can become worse during the winter. As water freezes and expands, it can cause existing leaks or cracks to grow, potentially leading to bigger plumbing issues.

Check all your taps and pipes for signs of leaks before winter arrives. Even a small drip can lead to big problems if the water freezes. If you find any leaks, have them repaired as soon as possible to avoid costly damage later.

From insulating your pipes to scheduling a water heater service, these intelligent plumbing steps will not only save you money on repairs but also give you peace of mind throughout the colder months.

Radiator not working properly? Is your tap dripping? Book a professional plumbing service with Smart Heating today.

Call 01603 457009 to schedule your appointment.