4 Plumbing Problems That are Common in the Winter

As winter approaches, many homeowners start to worry about potential plumbing problems. While some issues may be specific to colder weather, others can occur at any time of year. Here are four of the most common plumbing problems and how to fix them.

For Winter Plumbing Inspection in Indianapolis, Call 317-784-1870 Today.
For Winter Plumbing Inspection in Indianapolis, Call 317-784-1870 Today.

Four Winter Plumbing Problems to Watch Out For This Season

1. Frozen Pipes

Frozen pipes are a common plumbing problem in the winter. If the water in pipes freezes, it can cause them to burst. To prevent frozen pipes, you can insulate them or wrap them in heat tape. You should also make sure that your home is properly heated during the winter. If you do experience frozen pipes, you can use a hairdryer to thaw them out. However, if the pipes have already burst, you’ll need to call an Indianapolis plumber.

2. Clogged Drains

Clogged drains are another common plumbing issue in cold weather. They can be caused by food particles, grease and soap buildup, or leaves and other debris. To prevent clogs, use screens over your sinks and shower drains and avoid pouring grease or food down the drain. You can also use a plunger to clear out any minor clogs, but if it doesn’t work you should call a plumber for help.

3. Leaky Faucets

Leaky faucets are often caused by worn out washers or old valves. To fix them, you’ll need to replace the washer or valve. This is a simple repair that you can do yourself, but it will require some basic plumbing tools and knowledge.

4. Water Heater Issues

Water heaters can be temperamental in cold weather. If your water isn’t heating up properly, make sure that the thermostat is set to the desired temperature. You should also make sure your water heater is well insulated, as this will help prevent it from freezing. If you don’t feel comfortable inspecting or repairing the water heater yourself, you should call a plumber for assistance.

Conclusion

With these tips in mind, you can be better prepared for any winter plumbing problems that may arise. With a bit of proactive maintenance and quick action, you can keep your plumbing system running smoothly this winter.

Don’t let your plumbing problems turn into a winter disaster. Contact Weilhammer Plumbing Company today to schedule a plumbing inspection for your home or business. We’ll make sure your plumbing is ready for the cold weather ahead.

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A Guide to Blowing Out Your In-Ground Sprinkler System For Winter

Your in-ground sprinkler system can be an important part of your garden’s health and beauty. But during the winter months, when temperatures drop, it’s important to remember that your sprinkler system needs some special attention before the cold hits.

Continue below to review a quick and easy guide to blowing out your inground sprinkler system for winter, plus where to get the best seasonal plumbing service near you.

For Winter Plumbing Services in Indianapolis, Call 317-784-1870 Today!
For Seasonal Plumbing Services in Indianapolis, Call 317-784-1870 Today!

Winter Maintenance for Underground Sprinkler Systems

Blowing out your inground sprinkler system is one of the best ways to protect your pipes against freezing and can help you avoid costly plumbing repairs come springtime. Here are the simple steps to getting the job done right the first time, every time:

How to Blow Out an In-Ground Sprinkler System:

The first step in blowing out your inground sprinkler system is to locate the main water shut off valve. This will usually be located close to where the water supply enters your home. Once you’ve found this valve, turn it off completely until spring when you’re ready to use your sprinkler system again.

Next, you’ll need to connect a garden hose to one of the last sprinkler valves in your system. Run the other end into an area where it can safely drain without causing any damage (such as a grassy area). Finally, turn on all your sprinkler valves, starting with the first one closest to the main water shut off valve.

Once you’ve done this, turn on an outside faucet and let it run until nothing but air comes out of your sprinkler system pipes. This will help clear the remaining water from your pipes and ensure that they don’t freeze during the winter months. Once you’re done with the faucet, turn it off and close the shutoff valve you opened earlier.

Winter Sprinkler System Protection and Plumbing Maintenance

By following these steps, you can ensure that your in-ground sprinkler system is well-protected during winter months. If you have any questions about blowing out your inground sprinkler system or need help with other seasonal plumbing maintenance tasks, contact a local Indianapolis plumbing company for trusted assistance.

Are you looking for a trusted plumber to help you get your home or business equipped for the upcoming winter climate? Contact Weilhammer Plumbing Company at 317-784-1870 for licensed and insured plumbing service in Indianapolis, Indiana. We serve residential and commercial clients and are state-licensed master plumbers.

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How to Check if Your Plumbing is Ready for Winter
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How to Check if Your Plumbing is Ready for Winter

There are several ways the winter ice, snow, and climate can negatively affect your home’s plumbing systems. If you do not take certain measures to protect your plumbing from winter mayhem, you might be faced with some hefty repair and renovations costs come spring. After all, it is difficult to assess plumbing damages while the ground is covered in snow and ice. In most cases, homeowners are not aware of any issues until the snow melts and the damages are revealed.

Don’t let this happen to you this year or next! Instead, learn how to properly check and prepare your property’s plumbing to ensure it is ready for winter.

Indianapolis Plumbing Services 317-784-1870
Indianapolis Plumbing Services 317-784-1870

Interior Water Shut Off Valve

Every year, as soon as temperatures drop below 40 degrees Fahrenheit, it is wise to turn your inside water shut off valve to vertical to stop the outside drains from letting water flow through your pipes all winter. If you do not do this, water will continue to flow throughout the season, and thus pose the risk of frozen or burst plumbing pipes. It is important to flush out any leftover water in your irrigation lines and plumbing pipes once you are done using them for the season; otherwise, they can freeze up and lead to massive plumbing repairs and problems, overtime.

Outdoor Faucets and Hoses

After you have secured your interior water valve in a safe position for the season, implement an inspection of your outdoor faucets and spigots. Outdoor spigots, like irrigation lines, are more prone to collecting excess water. As a result, this excess water can freeze, and cause a water pressure to build up and damage pipes. See our blog, “Top 3 Ways to Prevent Frozen Outdoor Faucets” to learn how to get started. Accordingly, it is wise to organize and hang up all of your outdoor garden hoses. Water can also freeze within hoses, which can lead to rupturing come spring.

Gutters and Downspouts

Another consideration that is commonly overlooked as an area-of-focus for winter home maintenance preparation are gutter systems. Gutters can fill up with garbage and debris, which in turn collect and retain more water, and eventually freeze and thaw. All of this is bad for your house as it can cause cracking, warping, and water leaks. It is important to clean out your gutters and your downspouts before the winter season takes full effect. Otherwise, you may face several costly and invasive plumbing repairs once springtime is here.

Indianapolis Plumbing Inspections and Repairs

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Co. Inc. at 317-784-1870 for professional plumbing service and repair in Indianapolis, Indiana. Owner and Master plumber, Mark Weilhammer, is happy to give you free plumbing advice. Our highly trained and licensed plumbers provide a wide range of residential and commercial plumbing services; and as a family owned and operated company since 1901, you can trust us to deliver outstanding workmanship and customer support. Request a free estimate, today.