Winter Plumbing Problems? Common Issues and How to Fix Them
- richterplumbingco
- Feb 5
- 2 min read
Winter can be brutal on your plumbing. Freezing temperatures, increased hot water usage, and snowstorms all contribute to higher risks of plumbing emergencies. If you've ever had a frozen pipe burst or a water heater suddenly stop working, you know how frustrating and costly winter plumbing issues can be.
Luckily, with the right precautions and maintenance, you can prevent these problems before they happen. Here are some of the most common winter plumbing issues and what you can do about them.
1. Frozen Pipes
Why It Happens: When temperatures drop below freezing, the water inside your pipes can freeze. This causes pipes to expand, and in some cases, burst—leading to serious water damage.
How to Prevent It:
Insulate exposed pipes in attics, basements, and crawl spaces.
Keep cabinet doors open under sinks to allow warm air to circulate.
Let faucets drip slightly during extremely cold nights.
How to Fix It:
If you suspect a frozen pipe, apply gentle heat using a hairdryer or heating pad.
Never use an open flame—it’s a fire hazard!
If the pipe has burst, shut off the main water supply and call Richter Plumbing immediately.
2. Water Heater Struggles
Why It Happens: Water heaters work harder in winter due to increased demand and cold water entering the system. This can lead to lukewarm water or even complete failure.
How to Prevent It:
Flush your water heater to remove sediment buildup.
Increase your water heater temperature to 120°F (but not higher to avoid scalding).
Consider insulating your water heater tank for better efficiency.
How to Fix It:
Check for pilot light issues (for gas heaters) or reset the unit (for electric heaters).
If your water heater is old (10+ years), consider a replacement before it fails.
Call Richter Plumbing for professional water heater maintenance.
3. Slow or Clogged Drains
Why It Happens: Cold weather hardens grease and debris in your pipes, leading to slow or completely blocked drains.
How to Prevent It:
Never pour grease or oil down the drain.
Use drain strainers to catch food and hair.
Run hot water down the drain after using your sink.
How to Fix It:
Use baking soda and vinegar, followed by hot water.
If the clog persists, professional drain cleaning may be needed.
4. Outdoor Plumbing Damage
Why It Happens: Water left in outdoor faucets and hose bibs can freeze, causing burst pipes in your walls.
How to Prevent It:
Disconnect and store garden hoses before winter.
Shut off outdoor water supply lines.
Use insulated faucet covers to protect exterior spigots.
When to Call Richter Plumbing
If you're facing frozen pipes, no hot water, or clogged drains, don’t wait for a bigger problem. Richter Plumbing is here to help!
📞 Call us today for emergency plumbing repairs and winter maintenance.
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