As we head into the winter months, Maryland will see some much colder weather. Unfortunately, this cold weather can have a negative effect on your plumbing system.
Some of the most difficult plumbing problems happen during winter, so it’s important to prepare your system and stay ahead of these issues before they cause extensive damage! Below are a few of the most common plumbing problems that happen in cold weather.
Frozen Outdoor Pipes
When not properly winterized, outdoor water supply lines can easily freeze over and even burst. These lines don’t run through your home and often go unused during the winter months, so severe water damage can occur from a burst pipe before you even discover there is a leak.
To avoid this issue, you can winterize your outdoor water spigots by disconnecting the hoses until you need them again in the spring. Another simple solution is to have your plumber install frost-free hose bibs or add insulation to your outdoor water lines.
Frozen Indoor Pipes
Just like outdoor pipes, the water lines that run through your home can also freeze during winter. Pipes in exterior walls and uninsulated areas are the most likely to be affected. If this happens, you might notice lower water pressure or no water flow at all. Similar to outdoor lines, having a plumber install insulation can solve this problem. It may also be a good idea to have pressure relief valves installed to help avoid a buildup of pressure that can cause a pipe to burst.
Clogged Drains
During the cold winter months, we all tend to spend a lot more time inside. This means that our sinks, especially in the kitchen, get a lot more use. When cold weather hits, the debris stuck in your pipes can stiffen or combine with frozen water to cause a blockage.
To avoid this, make sure that you’re using your garbage disposal properly. Don’t put anything down the disposal that should be in a trash can, like cooking oil, coffee grounds, or meat bones. It’s also a good idea to clean your disposal periodically by running ice through it.
Failing Water Heaters
Water heaters also see a lot more use during the winter months. All of this additional wear and tear can cause your water heater to break down, especially if you haven’t had it serviced in more than a year.
Regular maintenance can help keep your water heater running at its best, but older heaters can still struggle to keep up with high demand. If you notice inconsistent water temperatures, strange noises, or even drainage at the base of your water heater, it may be time for a repair or replacement.
Stay Ahead of Cold Weather Problems with Ace Plumbing
Cold weather can cause a variety of plumbing problems. Having a skilled plumber properly winterize your plumbing system ahead of time can help prevent these issues.
If a problem does occur, Ace Plumbing can help. As experts in inline repair and replacement, water heater installation, and drain cleaning, our team knows exactly how to handle the plumbing issues that come with a cold Maryland winter. Give us a call at (410) 256-7900 for all your plumbing needs!
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