When to Call a Plumber During Winter: Know the Signs
Winter is by far the toughest season on your plumbing system. Temperatures plummet, leaving your pipes much more vulnerable to freezing, leaks, and other complications. It’s important to know how to spot the warning signs of winter plumbing emergencies before they turn into major headaches.
Finding potential problems early on can save you big money in costly repairs later down the line. With that in mind, here’s a guide to help you identify when it’s time to hire a plumber and how Caldwell Plumbing can help keep your home protected all winter long!
Common Winter Plumbing Emergencies
What winter plumbing emergencies are most common in Durham Region? Let’s take a look so you can be prepared to react quickly to the first signs of a problem:
Frozen Pipes
Our plumbers frequently get called out for frozen pipes during the winter. Why? Well, we all know that when water freezes, it expands. This puts immense pressure on your pipes and can lead to cracks and bursts.
Look out for:
- Reduced water flow
- Frost on pipe surfaces
- Unusual sounds from the faucet
If you notice any of these signs, call the professionals. It’s possible to thaw frozen pipes yourself, but if done improperly, this can lead to further damage. It’s best to hire a plumber who is experienced in solving winter plumbing issues!
Burst Pipes
Frozen pipes left unattended could burst. A burst pipe can release gallons of water into your home in minutes, leading to severe water damage and expensive repairs!
Look out for:
- Damp spots on walls, ceilings, or floors
- Unexpected spikes in water bills
These could be signs of a ‘hidden’ burst somewhere in your home. Immediate plumbing repairs are crucial to minimize damage!
Water Heater Issues
Your water heater has to work overtime during the winter, and too much work can leave water heaters prone to failures and inefficiencies. If not seen to, this could lead to a premature – and costly – water heater replacement.
Look out for:
- Water not heating properly
- Strange noises coming from the tank
- Sediment buildup in or around the tank
Regular maintenance and quick repairs will ensure you have hot water when you need it most, so it’s important to hire professionals to inspect your water heater.
Clogged Drains and Sewer Lines
Cold weather doesn’t necessarily cause clogged drains and sewer blockages, but it can exacerbate them. That’s because freezing conditions only serve to make grease, debris, and hair blockages harder to solve.
Look out for:
- Slow drains
- Gurgling noises
- Foul odors
These could all indicate a clog. The experts at Caldwell Plumbing can inspect your system from the inside with a specialized drain camera to pinpoint blockages or leaks. This helps us fix the problem in the least invasive way possible!
Prevent Winter Plumbing Emergencies
Caldwell Plumbing is always ready to deliver emergency plumbing repairs, but don’t leave it to chance. Hire a plumber today to check through all the essentials and make sure your plumbing system is fit to handle the cold. You can count on us to detect potential problems before they turn into major issues!
Reach out today for your free estimate!
Frequently Asked Questions
Shut off your home’s main water supply immediately and call Caldwell Plumbing. Quick action is essential to minimize water damage and costly repairs.
While minor freezing can sometimes be thawed with gentle heat, using the wrong methods can cause more damage. It’s safer to hire a plumber for proper thawing.
A yearly inspection before winter starts is ideal. This ensures your system is prepared for cold weather and reduces the risk of winter plumbing emergencies!
Unexpected increases in your water bill, damp or cold spots on walls or floors, and reduced water pressure can all point to hidden leaks. Contact Caldwell Plumbing for thorough leak detection and repairs.
