As we settle into the winter season, it’s time to start preparing our homes for the cold weather.
There’s nothing better than being wrapped up in a cozy blanket and having a hot drink, although you won’t be able to enjoy your afternoon if you have to deal with a frozen plumbing system.
When temperatures drop significantly, water pipes have a higher chance of bursting or freezing over, which can wreak havoc on your home. Victoria’s winters are unpredictable, but whether it’s unusually warm or incredibly cold, it’s essential to make sure your plumbing systems are fully functional.
Fortunately, many plumbing problems can be avoided when homeowners proactively seek plumbing services and maintenance.
Frozen Pipes
Plumbing problems are most prevalent during the winter months, as water can freeze quickly when the temperature drops below zero.
Many homes have outdoor plumbing lines that are used for summer irrigation purposes. Since these lines are located outside, there’s no protection from the cold, making them the most susceptible to bursting.
It can be difficult to detect frozen outdoor pipes, as the water sources aren’t used during the winter.
Any water damage may take days to be discovered, during which the flooded water will negatively impact your home’s structural integrity.
Although the interior of your home offers a semblance of protection, uninsulated areas along exterior walls can cause the water supply lines to freeze as well. Watch out for a light flow of water from sinks and showers, as it’s often a sign of frozen pipes.
Water Heater Troubles
One of the many things people look forward to after spending the day outside is taking a steaming hot shower.
However, water heaters may struggle with the demand, as the winter temperatures make it harder to warm water quickly. If you notice that your taps or showers are not giving hot water, it may be a sign that your water heater is failing.
The last thing anyone wants is to take a cold shower in even colder weather, making it crucial to have your heater working at its highest efficiency.
Clogged Kitchen Drains
The holiday season is the perfect time to cook and celebrate as a family. As more food waste is sent down the kitchen sink, clogs are more likely to occur than at any other time of year.
Certain things such as cooking oil, eggshells, and grease should never be disposed of in the drain. The cold weather can cause these materials to freeze in the pipes, clogging the drain and creating a nasty smell.
To help prevent a clogged drain, run cold water while using the disposer and keep it on for 30 seconds after everything has been dumped.
If you don’t have a disposer, consider getting a sink strainer to ensure that your drain doesn’t get clogged up. And if you’re here because your drains are already clogged, give us a call today.
Professional Plumbing Services in Victoria, BC
Is your water pressure not as strong as it used to be?
People tend to spend more time indoors during the winter, which increases water consumption. Cold weather conditions put your pipes at risk of freezing and bursting, leading to costly repairs that no one wants to deal with during the holiday season.
If you’re experiencing any plumbing problems, don’t hesitate to contact the pros. You can count on Drain Pro experts for quick and effective plumbing solutions.
Reach out to us to learn more about our plumbing services and schedule your service today.