Common Cold Weather Plumbing Problems

Well we are finally seeing our first sign that winter is here in Texas! It is getting to be that time of year when we feel that chilly bite in the air after the sun goes down.  Temperatures are falling into the freezing range and we are getting calls for the most common cold weather plumbing problems like frozen pipes, busted pipes, failing water heaters, clogged drains, yard leaks and slab leaks.

Frozen/burst pipes

A pipe that freezes and breaks is a dangerous and costly winter plumbing problem. One important thing you can do to prevent this from happening is to identify and insulate all exposed pipes. These may include pipes in an outside wall. You can also prevent a frozen pipe by turning off all outdoor fixtures during the winter, and by letting faucets drip during extremely cold weather.

Failing water heater

Before temperatures plummet, it is wise to have your heat-producing appliances serviced to make sure they will be operational when you need them the most. Duncan Plumbing Solutions can come out and check your water heater to verify that everything is operational and perform any needed maintenance. This is especially important if you notice the water isn’t getting as hot as it used to. In such cases, you may simply need to turn up the temperature on your water heater, or a water heater element may need to be replaced.

Leak in the Yard or Slab leaks

It doesn’t take much for movement in Texas soil to crack a pipe or loosen a fitting on the buried water or gas line.  While these pipes are made of durable materials, there can be damage over time and in extreme weather conditions.

Poor insulation can also cause frozen pipes to burst in extreme cold temperatures. If the insulation was not placed on the pipes correctly, a leak could occur when the pipe bursts in below freezing temperatures. In addition to cold weather, dry soil conditions could also cause pipes to shift and get damaged. Loose joints are one of the main reasons for a plumbing leak, and this can occur underneath a slab as well.

Slab leaks refer to leaks of plumbing pipes which are installed in and or under the concrete slab foundation of your home. Slab leaks happen because of the tremendous pressure involved and that pressure can cause the slab to give. Imagine what that pressure does to the pipes running to your home. Freezing temperatures can exacerbate any issues.

Clogged drains

When outside drains and gutters become clogged with leaves and debris, rain and melting snow cannot properly drain. This can lead to “ice dams,” which cause backed-up water to enter the house. Prevent this problem by keeping the drains and gutters clear of fallen leaves, and by flushing these areas out with a hose. Installing gutter covers is another solution. Gutter covers allow water to drain, while keeping leaves and debris out.

If you need help with these tasks or with any other pre-winter plumbing maintenance, be sure to enlist the services of Duncan Plumbing Solutions!

Duncan Plumbing Solutions | Phone: 972-937-0040 | info@duncanplumbingsolutions.com | www.duncanplumbingsolutions.com | Cedar Hill Plumber 75104 | Duncanville Plumber 75116 | Desoto Plumber 75115 | Mansfield Plumber 76063 | Waxahachie Plumber 75165 | Red Oak Plumber 75154 | Waxahachie Plumber 75165 | Ennis Plumber 75119 Master License # M-39624

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