As temperatures drop, plumbing concerns are on the rise! Rain and snow play a huge role in the overall condition of your plumbing system. Plumbing issues can begin subtly over time — or seemingly all at once! In order to avoid the worst case scenario, it is important to be acquainted with the most common plumbing issues in winter.
The Lower Mainland is not known for frigid winters but that does not mean that temperatures can’t dip below freezing. There is nothing worse than having to manage freezing water, or lacking running hot water indoors. Instead of struggling with a damaged drainage system, poor water heating, or clogged drains, call a professional instead. Specialists treat and monitor the plumbing systems around your home or commercial property, even in the cold!
Identifying the Most Common Winter Plumbing Issues
When you want to protect your property from unexpected damage, taking a proactive approach to both indoor and outdoor plumbing needs can prevent disaster, as well avoiding daily inconveniences, protecting properties and avoiding the need for costly repairs and replacements.
Flooding in Basements: On the West Coast, heavy rains can quickly overwhelm exterior and interior drains throughout the winter months. Water backup is very dangerous for structures and for lawns — and rain is not the only culprit! Every snow fall is followed by melting and this leaves water behind, resting against sensitive areas. A drowned lawn is a problem but a flooded basement is an extremely stressful and expensive issue.
Calling a professional plumber can help to treat flooding in multiple stages. If you are already experiencing flooding, it is important to dry out areas as quickly as possible. Depending on the amount of water, you may need a towel or pump. Pull out items that can be damaged if exposed to moisture and put fans to use, to dry these areas. Plumbing professionals can inspect for leaks and work toward sealing them.
Frozen Pipes: Cold weather means the chance of frozen water, and the possibility of frozen pipes, both indoors and out. If temperatures drop below freezing for prolonged periods, any water that is left inside systems is prone to freezing. Something as simple as failing to shut off outdoor taps can lead large-scale issues to your plumbing system. If water is left sitting within pipes, it will freeze and it will expand. Water is known to expand up to 9% and that can quickly lead to a burst pipe.
Consulting a plumbing professional can help to prevent freezing and the water damage that comes along with it. A trained eye can identify whether or not taps have been properly shut off and drained. If thawing frozen pipes were as simple as taking a minute to pour boiling water on pipes, homeowners would never have an issue. Plumbing specialists are able to track down frozen sections, properly identifying problem areas and treat them according to the unique needs of your system. If you are noticing frozen pipes, turn off the water supply and call a plumber.
Poor Water Heating: A hot shower is a great way to warm up after being out in freezing temperatures, but only when your water heater is fully functional. Cold weather will put significant strain on your water heater, which can lead to a break down in mechanics. Having heaters inspected can help to ensure that they will make it through the season, if maintained. Should your water heater break down over the winter, call an expert to install your new appliance.
Catering to Your Winter Plumbing Needs
It is always a good idea to consult a plumbing professional when going into the cold season. Everything from your septic tank, heaters, garbage disposals and more, are subject to potential damage and should be inspected before winter weather can cause havoc. Our plumbers are local to the Lower Mainland, so our experts know exactly what your property is up against. Instead of struggling with trial and error, or taking a risk on potential damage, have an expert put top tools and training to use.
