Having a quality plumbing contractor by your side should be a top priority all throughout the year, but winter tends to raise the stakes substantially. If you're not ready for the change of seasons, you could be caught off guard. Stay ahead of plumbing hazards this winter and consider these risks while there's still time to prepare.

Top 3 Winter Plumbing Problems

1. Clogged Drains

Clogs can happen at any time, but the increase in activity that comes along with holiday gatherings makes them even more common in winter. Closely monitor everything that goes down your drain. Dispose of oils, fats, and grease separately, and be mindful of the waste you put in your garbage disposal. If you end up with clogged pipes, avoid using caustic over-the-counter solutions and consult with the pros for the best results.

2. Frozen Pipes

If your water flow appears to slow down noticeably this winter, you might be dealing with one of the most common issues of the season – frozen pipes. If you suspect you have a frozen pipe, leave the tap open slightly to allow water to flow through the system. This can reduce pressure and stop your pipes from freezing. After that, it’s important to call a professional plumbing contractor for repairs so they can assess the situation and help prevent damage to the rest of your plumbing system. 

3. Busted Water Heater

When you can't even get respite from the cold in your own shower, you know you're experiencing some serious winter plumbing blues. Your hot water heater has to work harder in the winter to keep up with the colder temperatures, and this can cause strain on the system. If you notice your water is taking a while to heat up or you hear unusual noises coming from your hot water heater, schedule maintenance with your plumbing contractor before winter is in full swing.

When winter presents you with the worst-case plumbing scenarios, you need the help of a plumbing contractor. Millard Plumbing & General Contractor has been all that and more for residential, commercial, and industrial clients throughout Dardanelle, AR, for more than 30 years. Check out their website for an overview of their varied services, or call them at (479) 229-1025 to schedule an appointment today.