During the coldest months of the year, your water heater often has to work harder than usual to provide hot water. The liquid entering your plumbing system can be several degrees colder in the winter, which can cause underlying issues to become more noticeable. The guide below discusses problems to look out for and steps you can take to prepare your water heater.

A Guide to Plumbing System Problems During Winter

How Is the Water Heater Impacted?

If your hot water heater is in the basement, it’s typically much colder down there. If you have an older tank, winter is often the time when it may start malfunctioning, as the plumbing may be utilized more because homeowners are inside the home for longer periods. You may discover sediment in the tank which can affect its heating capability.

Cold weather can also freeze pipes, which causes them to expand and possibly burst if it’s not repaired in time. During the lead up to freezing, the water heater may develop small leaks that can result in long-term damage and the need for a replacement. If you notice that the water heater is noisier than usual, or your energy bills have increased more than normal, it’s time to call your local plumber to figure out what’s wrong.

How Can You Prepare During Winter?

Scheduling an inspection with a plumbing contractor is the best way to prevent issues before they have a chance to snowball into something more expensive. There are also steps you can take at home, such as insulating the plumbing pipes in your basement, attic, and other areas that don’t receive enough heat. Cleaning out the hot water tank to remove sediment is another way to avoid noise and rust in your water.

When you need professional plumbing services, contact the experts at Norhio Plumbing Inc in Aurora, OH. Their experienced team has provided reliable commercial and residential plumbing throughout northeast Ohio for over 40 years. Whether you need drain cleaning, water heater repairs, or 24/7 emergency plumbing, you can trust their dedicated contractors to handle it all. To schedule an appointment, call (330) 562-9671 or visit them online to learn more about the company.