While College Station, TX, enjoys more of a mild, subtropical climate, winter weather can still bring some chilly temperatures, which can create challenges for your home’s plumbing system. As temperatures drop, your appliances, pipes, and fixtures are vulnerable to a range of problems. Let’s explore some common winter plumbing issues and how you can prevent them to keep your home safe and comfortable.
1. Clogged Drains
Winter holidays often bring more guests and more stress on your plumbing. Kitchen drains are particularly vulnerable to clogs from grease, fats, and food particles. Avoid pouring grease down the drain and use strainers to catch food debris. Running hot water through the sink after use can also help prevent clogs.
Are clogged drains more serious in cold temperatures?
Drains clogged with hair, soap scum, oil, organic debris, and other items can become stiff and harden further during the winter when colder temperatures hit. Combined with frozen water, this can leave you with standing water in your shower and perhaps a dangerous backup.
2. Water Heater Failure
During colder months, your water heater works harder to maintain hot water, which can lead to breakdowns. Regular maintenance, such as flushing the tank to remove sediment build-up, can keep your water heater running efficiently. Scheduling an annual inspection will help identify potential issues before they escalate.
3. Leaky Faucets
Leaky faucets can be more than just an annoyance; they can indicate underlying issues in your plumbing system. In winter, minor leaks can worsen due to temperature changes. Regularly check your faucets and replace worn-out washers or seals to avoid more significant problems.
Why are leaky faucets worse in winter?
Your leaky faucets or fixtures may worsen in winter due to the low temperatures causing rubber seals and gaskets to shrink and harden, which creates more spaces for water to escape.
4. Frozen Pipes
While College Station doesn’t often face extreme cold, when temperatures drop low enough, pipes can freeze, causing serious damage. Insulating pipes in unheated areas and sealing any cracks in the walls or foundation will help keep them safe. Allowing a slow drip from faucets during freezing weather can also help prevent frozen pipes.
What pipes are most likely to freeze?
Pipes that are not insulated and exterior pipes that are exposed to freezing or below-freezing temperatures are at the highest risk of freezing.
5. Damaged Outdoor Faucets
Outdoor faucets are particularly vulnerable in the winter, as they can freeze and crack if not properly winterized. To prevent damage, disconnect hoses, drain the faucets, and cover them with insulated faucet covers. If you have an irrigation system, be sure it’s properly drained before the first freeze.
Plumbing Services You Can Count On!
At Todaro Plumbing, we understand the unique plumbing challenges that winter brings to College Station, TX. Our team is here to help you prepare for the colder months with expert plumbing services. We can assist with drain cleaning, water treatment, hydro jetting, and more!
If you need assistance with winterizing your plumbing or addressing any plumbing issues, contact us today. Let’s ensure your home stays warm and problem-free this winter.
