It’s no secret that winter can be a harsh season- especially in colder climates. And while most people prepare for the cold by bundling up and staying indoors, some have to face the cold head-on because of their job. Plumbers are one of those people. While many people may think plumbing is an issue only for the warmer months, winter brings its unique plumbing challenges. Here are common reasons you may need to hire a plumbing company this winter:
1. Frozen Pipes
As temperatures drop during winter, frozen pipes can become a major concern. Even in regions that don’t experience extremely cold winters, your plumbing system can become affected. If the water inside your pipes freezes and expands due to subzero weather, the pipes may crack – leading to serious damage that requires professional attention from a plumbing company. Thankfully, if you spot signs of frozen pipes, such as dripping taps or reduced water pressure, most experienced plumbers can easily thaw them. Ultimately, it’s important to call a plumbing professional for help as soon as you notice signs of frozen pipes. However, if you had taken precautionary measures like insulation, you would have been able to avoid this issue altogether.
2. Burst Pipes
When frozen pipes go unnoticed, they can lead to the possibility of a burst pipe. A burst pipe is not only a major problem but also an emergency – as water can cause serious damage if left unchecked. This is why it’s important to keep an eye on pipes exposed to cold temperatures or contact a trusted plumbing company to check in as winter approaches. They can provide valuable services such as pipe insulation while knowing how to assess quickly and repair any damage caused should a pipe burst. It may seem like an expense, but compared to the costs of cleaning up after a major burst pipe event, making sure your plumbing system is winterized can be money well spent.
3. Snow & Ice Clogs
Your drainage is one of the most important parts of the plumbing system, and it’s easy to forget how much snow and ice can cause issues. As temperatures drop, snow and ice can easily find their way into outdoor drains, causing clogs and backups. Unfortunately, most clogs can’t be cleared with a plunger, so it’s best to contact a reliable plumbing company that can provide drain-clearing services. To prevent your drainage system from becoming clogged, hire a plumbing company to clear the debris before winter sets in. This is because ice & snow are more likely to form in drains with debris than in clean ones. When you call a plumbing company in Tampa, FL to inspect and clear the drains, don’t forget the gutters and downspouts. Most people overlook these, but they are also part of the drainage system and can easily become blocked during winter.
4. Low Water Pressure
Low water pressure can be a real headache in the winter months. This is especially true when temperatures become frigid, making water flow through pipes difficult. Without proper hot and cold water pressure, taking a hot shower or cleaning dishes may be impossible. Low water pressure during winter can be caused by several issues, including frozen pipes, sagging pipes, and even clogged pipes. You may also have a burst pipe causing the pressure to drop. If you are dealing with low water pressure, it’s best to contact a plumbing company immediately. They will be able to pinpoint the source of the issue and provide solutions to get your hot & cold water pressure back in balance. They have experts trained in fixing low-pressure issues quickly and safely, giving you peace of mind and ensuring your household functions as it should. Don’t let low pressure stop you from getting through the winter season – hire an experienced plumber to ensure everything flows correctly!
5. Leaking Seals & Gaskets
In most cases, leaking seals and gaskets occur due to age or wear and tear. However, during winter, these issues are usually caused by cold weather and poor maintenance. Low temperatures can cause seals and gaskets to become brittle and weak, leading to leaks in critical areas such as around faucets or water heaters. To prevent this from happening, it’s important to have a plumbing professional inspect the entire system before winter hits. They will be able to identify any issues with seals & gaskets and fix them before they become a major problem.
6. A Failed Sump Pump
Another common reason you may need to hire a professional plumbing company in Tampa, FL this winter is a failed sump pump. Sump pumps are critical for keeping your property from groundwater and partially protecting your home from flooding and other moisture-related damage. During the winter, freezing temperatures make sump pumps more likely to fail due to condensation and ice blockage. Sump pumps are designed to move water from one area of the house to another, and any prolonged exposure to cold can cause these components to malfunction. The motor itself may sustain structural damage when exposed to too much cold.
Since winter is often wet and rainy with high humidity levels, this can increase the likelihood of condensation forming inside the pump, leading to failure. Extreme weather conditions can also freeze the discharge pipe, preventing it from running as it should. Inspecting your pump regularly is important to reduce your chances of winter failure.
Are You Looking For A Plumbing Professional To Assist You This Winter?
As you can see, there are many reasons why you may need to hire a plumbing company in Tampa, FL this winter. Whether it’s frozen pipes, low water pressure, leaking seals & gaskets, or failed sump pumps – Drain Flo Plumbing is here to help. We are experienced in all aspects of plumbing and will ensure your home runs properly, no matter the weather! Contact us today for an appointment or emergency service.
Let us take care of any winter-related plumbing issues so you can keep your house safe and warm!