How To Handle Common Winter Plumbing Problems in Greenwood, IN

Winters turn Greenwood and the greater Indianapolis area into a veritable winter wonderland, but the cold weather can be less enthralling if it comes with plumbing woes. Cold weather and older plumbing don’t mix well, so many of the older homes in Greenwood suffer from frozen pipes and other common winter plumbing problems. 

The team from Kight’s Quality Air knows a few tricks to keep the cold out of your pipe system this winter. Here’s a quick guide on how professionals handle a few common winter plumbing issues. Contact us for the top plumbers in Greenwood, Indiana, or read on for some common plumbing problems the area’s property owners experience.

Frozen Pipes

Frozen pipes are among the most common plumbing issues homeowners have dealt with throughout plumbing history. When temperatures drop too low, the water in pipes can freeze and expand, blocking water flow and potentially causing damage. You can tell a pipe is beginning to freeze by frost build-up or coldness on the outside. 

If a pipe is frozen and you can access it easily, you can thaw it with a heating pad (some people swear by hair dryers, but there are risks). Heat each section of the pipe slowly to avoid damage from thermal expansion and contraction. 

If you want to prevent frozen and burst pipes, it’s also helpful to winterize your plumbing with antifreeze.

Clogged Drains

Clogged drains are one of the most common winter plumbing problems because more people are cooking at home during the holiday season. Fats, oils, grease, and waste from making rich, festive meals can enter your sink drains and cause stubborn clogs. The cold weather also causes clogged material to congeal and harden, blocking water flow. 

You can try cleaning slightly clogged drains with a mixture of vinegar and baking soda. The heat from the reaction softens the blockage. You can also use a drain snake and auger to pierce the clog, break it up, and manually remove the pieces. 

Did neither of these strategies work? Next, remove the drain P-trap and clean it out. Then, call professionals like Kight’s Quality Air for troubleshooting help.

Water Heater Issues

Most people’s water heater usage spikes during the winter, so it’s a popular season for water heater-related problems. A common winter issue is broken gaskets or seals that cause water leaks. Sediment buildup in tanks is also a common problem that can damage the heating elements. 

Professional plumbers can solve both problems by replacing damaged gaskets and draining the tank to remove sediment deposits. 

Sump Pump Failure

Sometimes, melting snow can overload your sump pump, leading to basement flooding and water intrusion. Sump pump maintenance should keep the unit in good enough condition to manage this extra water. However, additional drainage systems that direct water flow away from your house are an even better backup against common winter plumbing problems in  Greenwood, Indiana. 

Is your house’s basement below the water line? You may need to upgrade to a more powerful pump.

Avoiding Plumbing Problems in Greenwood, Indiana, This Winter

Below are some additional tips to help you avoid the most common winter plumbing issues.

• Consider insulating your pipes. Insulation prevents pipes from freezing and bursting when temperatures plummet and lowers water heater operating costs by reducing energy loss. 
• Disconnect outdoor faucets during the coldest parts of the year. Outdoor faucets are more susceptible to freezing. Turn off the water source and cover the faucet openings.
• Allow dripping taps. If you are leaving for an extended period, leave a few faucets at a slow drip. The moving water will stop them from freezing, averting damage, and septic tank problems. 
• Keep the heat at a consistent level. Low temperatures in the house make pipes more likely to freeze. 
• Inspect your pipes. Look for leaks in the weeks leading up to winter. Consider contacting a plumbing company to conduct a professional inspection and identify potential winter issues before they arise. 

The best way to deal with winter plumbing issues is to avoid them in the first place. Don’t hesitate to contact a professional plumbing company if you notice any issues.