Becoming a homeowner is an exciting experience, but it comes with a variety of maintenance responsibilities that are essential for protecting your investment. During the winter, it’s especially important to take preventative measures with your plumbing system. Although a plumbing disaster may arise in any season, colder temperatures increase the potential for problems. Here are some of the most common issues plumbers deal with this time of year, along with suggestions on how to avoid them. 

How Winter Can Affect Your Plumbing

1. Clogged Drains 

When the harsh winter weather arrives, most people would rather stay cozy indoors and prepare their meals at home rather than venture outside to go eat. All the extra cooking and cleaning often results in more fats, grease, oil, and food waste going down the kitchen sink. Eventually, this can create buildup that clogs the pipes. If this happens, a plumber can get your water flowing again with a professional drain cleaning. To prevent blockages, use a drain screen, put food scraps in the trashcan, and never pour fats, grease, or oil into the drain.

2. Frozen & Leaking Pipes 

If temperatures get really low, any water remaining inside your pipes could freeze. Frozen pipes not only keep water from flowing out of your faucets, but there’s also a risk they could burst from the pressure buildup, resulting in serious water damage.

Fortunately, this can be avoided by insulating pipes that are exposed to cold air, such as those in the basement, crawlspaces, garage, or the exterior of your home. Additionally, you can open cabinets that are near plumbing lines to allow heat to circulate around them. Should you suspect a frozen pipe, don’t wait to contact your plumber for an inspection.

3. Water Heater Failure 

Hot water heaters typically work overtime in winter to get the water warmed up to the right temperature. This puts extra wear and tear on the unit, which can cause it to fail. In turn, you want to closely monitor your water heater through the season for signs of trouble, including strange noises, loss of water pressure, or a decrease in water temperature. If you have any concerns, a plumber can diagnose the problem and make repairs before the unit completely breaks down.

If you encounter any complications with your plumbing system, turn to Drain Pro Plumbing in Lakeville, MN. Backed by more than 50 years of combined industry experience, their team of plumbers is prepared to deliver high-quality and effective solutions for even the toughest job. They proudly provide same-day service for emergency situations and maintain an honest pricing policy. Call (952) 469-6999 to request a free estimate, or visit them online for additional information on the wide range of services they offer.