Although plumbing calamities can happen during any time of year, the winter season brings with it a different set of challenges. Many homeowners are proactive to ensure that they have a full plumbing check-up before the wintry weather sets in. Courtesy of Benjamin Franklin Doylestown, your prime source for boiler installation in Montgomery County, read our list of some of the most common plumbing issues that we see during the cold season.
But first, watch our video:
Your water heater fails
Some folks enjoy nothing more than a nice, hot shower — unless your water heater fails, in which case you're likely to feel it right away. Typically, a standard water heater will last for about ten years. After that, it may need replacing, especially if it's on its last legs.
During the cold season, your water tank has to work a lot harder to keep the water inside at the right temperature, and this extra effort may push an older water heater over the edge. If your system is starting to show its years, it may be time to think about switching it out.The pipes freeze
If the weather is cold enough, any area of your plumbing system can freeze if you don't adequately protect it. It's good to develop the habit of getting your plumbing system checked every year before the winter weather sets in so that you can insulate any pipes that are particularly at risk of freezing. There are many DIY methods that are handy for keeping your system's water flowing, such as keeping the water at a slow drip so that the fluid is always in motion.
You also need to properly manage the concealed pipes beneath your floor, inside your cabinets, and in your outside system. If your system does end up freezing, make sure to turn off the water flow and give our team a call.Your septic tank can burst
In particularly frigid weather, the line connecting your home to your septic tank can freeze, and the tank itself can even burst, creating a very serious situation that you need to address immediately. Although your system may be better protected if there is heavy snow cover, the snow can also increase the risk of failure if it is compacted, as the lack of air will leave your system without insulation.
If your system bursts, you must call a professional plumbing service to get the problem taken care of right away. Make it a point to have your septic tank cleaned out each year before the winter begins to set in to prevent any problems after the snow falls.Your drains can get clogged
The winter season can sometimes put a greater strain on your home's drain system. Many people tend to eat out less and cook at home more often as they begin feeling the colder temperatures, putting your plumbing under a lot of pressure. The winter season often sees a lot of clogged sink drains, making it a good idea to have them cleaned before the snow arrives. If you find a clog in your home's sink, shower, or bathroom, give our team at Benjamin Franklin Doylestown a call to put things right.Your water line can leak
In general, you never want to see a leak in your home's water line, but it can pose an even worse problem in the winter. Due to the low temps, water lines can freeze and cause holes and split pipes. Instead of going through the hassle of dealing with leaks in the forbidding winter months, take steps to ensure your water line is in top shape before anything happens in the first place. If you spot any minor issues with your pipes, call our crew here at Benjamin Franklin Doylestown to come and take a look before your problem becomes a bigger one.
If you have any questions about your plumbing system, or if you're looking for boiler installation in Buckingham, call our team today at (215) 712-8650.