Although we’re all dreaming of a white Christmas, cold weather can bring its share of plumbing problems and frustrations. There’s nothing worse than taking a freezing cold shower when it’s 30 degrees outside, but unfortunately, even the most reliable plumbing systems tend to go a little haywire during the winter months. Here are three of the most common winter plumbing problems to watch for and what might be causing them.
The Hot Water Stops Working
More often than not, your winter plumbing problem is going to involve your hot water tap. When the outside temperature drops, water heaters can stop producing hot water efficiently. The pilot light can also fail to reignite, which means more cold showers for your family. The best way to deal with the problem? Call in a professional to assess the heater.
Your Pipes Freeze
It might not get cold in Texas, but it’s still possible for layers of ice to coat your pipes. When this happens, it can cause some serious plumbing issues. The best way to prevent pipes from freezing is to keep your house above 60 degrees, even when you’re not home. You should probably cover up the exposed outdoor pipes, as well. Also, let your faucet drip on exceedingly cold nights so that the moving water isn’t able to freeze inside the pipes.
A Pipe Bursts
If your pipes do end up freezing, they might crack and eventually burst. It’s not an uncommon occurrence during the winter months and the aftermath can be a real mess (water leakage, etc.). Even if your pipes don’t freeze, rust can cause them to split. Therefore, it’s important to keep an eye on all of your visible pipes to ensure they are rust and ice-free.
If you encounter one of these seasonal plumbing setbacks, you’ll probably need to call in a professional service like Bluefrog Plumbing + Drain of Amarillo. The company’s trained representatives will ensure that the problems are fixed efficiently so you can go back to living with hot water and comfort. Contact them today to learn more about their services and reasonable prices at 806-977-9285!