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Common Winter Plumbing Problems and How to Avoid Them

Winter can be a challenging season for homeowners, especially when it comes to plumbing. Freezing temperatures, snowstorms, and increased water usage during the holidays can all contribute to common winter plumbing problems. From frozen pipes to water heater breakdowns, these issues can cause significant inconvenience and costly repairs if not addressed promptly. Fortunately, with a little preparation and preventative maintenance, you can protect your home from winter plumbing headaches. 

At ServiceOne, we are one of the most trusted Omaha plumbing maintenance companies. Here’s a guide to the most common winter plumbing problems and how to avoid them.

1. Frozen Pipes

Frozen pipes are one of the most common and damaging winter plumbing issues. When the temperature drops below freezing, water inside the pipes can freeze and expand, causing pipes to burst. A burst pipe can result in flooding and expensive repairs.

How to Avoid Frozen Pipes:

  • Insulate Pipes: Cover exposed pipes in unheated areas, such as basements, garages, or crawl spaces, with foam insulation or heat tape.

  • Let Faucets Drip: Allow a slow drip of water from faucets during extremely cold weather to keep water flowing and prevent freezing.

  • Seal Drafts: Close gaps and cracks around windows, doors, and walls near pipes to keep the cold air out.

  • Keep Heat On: Even if you’re away, maintain your home’s temperature above 55°F to prevent freezing.

If you suspect a frozen pipe, turn off the water supply and call a professional plumber immediately to minimize damage.

2. Water Heater Issues

During winter, your water heater works harder to supply hot water, which can lead to wear and tear or failure. Common signs of trouble include inconsistent water temperature, strange noises, or a lack of hot water altogether.

How to Avoid Water Heater Problems:

  • Inspect and Flush the Tank: Sediment buildup can reduce efficiency and cause damage. Flushing your water heater annually can prevent this.

  • Check the Temperature Setting: Ensure your water heater is set to a safe and efficient temperature, typically around 120°F.

  • Schedule Maintenance: Have a professional plumber inspect your water heater before winter to ensure it’s in top condition.

If your water heater is old or showing signs of wear, consider upgrading to a more energy-efficient model to avoid unexpected breakdowns.

3. Clogged Drains

Holiday gatherings often lead to heavy usage of kitchen sinks and drains. Grease, food scraps, and debris can accumulate in your pipes, causing clogs and slow drainage.

How to Avoid Clogged Drains:

  • Dispose of Grease Properly: Never pour grease or oil down the drain. Instead, collect it in a container and throw it in the trash.

  • Use Drain Screens: Install screens over drains to catch food particles and debris.

  • Flush Drains Regularly: Use hot water and a mild drain cleaner to keep pipes clear.

For persistent clogs, avoid using harsh chemical drain cleaners and call a professional plumber to safely resolve the issue.

4. Increased Water Usage

With more people at home during the holidays, water usage tends to spike. This extra demand can strain your plumbing system, leading to leaks or pressure issues.

How to Avoid Overloading Your Plumbing System:

  • Check for Leaks: Inspect pipes, faucets, and toilets for leaks and repair them promptly to prevent further stress on your system.

  • Spread Out Water Usage: Stagger showers, laundry, and dishwashing to avoid overwhelming your plumbing.

ServiceOne: Your Winter Plumbing Experts

Winter plumbing issues can be stressful, but they don’t have to disrupt your home. At ServiceOne, we specialize in winter plumbing maintenance and repairs to keep your home safe and functional all season long. From insulating pipes to repairing water heaters, our experienced team is here to help.

Don’t wait until problems arise—schedule a winter plumbing inspection with ServiceOne today. Call us or visit our website to learn more about why we are one of the most trusted plumbing maintenance companies in Omaha and how we can protect your home from the harsh winter months. Let ServiceOne handle your plumbing needs so you can enjoy a worry-free winter!

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