Surviving Winter with Smart Tips for Your Plumbing System
By Landon Irvine, SameDay Plumbing
Winter is here, and your plumbing system is working overtime. Freezing temperatures and increased water usage mean pipes, water heaters, and drains are under more stress than ever.
Now’s the time to check in on your plumbing system and make sure it’s running smoothly. A mid-winter tune-up can catch issues before they turn into expensive problems. Here’s how to protect your home for the rest of the season.
Watch for Frozen Pipes
By now, the cold has set in, and if your pipes aren’t properly protected, freezing could already be a risk. Frozen pipes can crack or burst, causing water damage and leaving you without running water.
Signs your pipes may be freezing:
- No water flow: If water is barely trickling—or not coming out at all—it’s time to investigate.
- Frost on exposed pipes: This is a clear sign that a pipe is in danger of freezing.
- Strange smells: A sewer-like smell from your drains could mean a frozen pipe is blocking airflow.
What to do now:
- Open cabinet doors under sinks to let warm air reach pipes.
- Keep faucets dripping slightly in at-risk areas to prevent freezing.
- Call a plumber if you suspect a pipe has frozen. Acting fast can minimize damage.
Check Your Water Heater’s Performance
Your water heater is doing its heaviest lifting right now. If it’s not functioning well, you could run out of hot water just when you need it most.
What to look for:
- Water not staying hot: This could mean mineral buildup is reducing your heater’s efficiency.
- Unusual noises: Popping or rumbling sounds often indicate sediment has collected in the tank.
- Leaks or rust: These are signs that your water heater may need repair—or replacement.
Mid-winter water heater tips:
- Schedule a professional flush if you haven’t already. This clears out buildup and keeps the system efficient.
- Check the temperature setting. Keeping it at 120°F is ideal for safety and energy savings.
- Insulate your water heater and nearby pipes to reduce heat loss.
A quick tune-up now can ensure you have hot water for the rest of winter without interruption.
Clear Your Drains to Avoid Plumbing System Clogs
Holiday cooking, cold grease, and increased water use often lead to clogged drains this time of year. Left unchecked, slow drains can escalate to full blockages.
What to look for:
- Slow draining sinks or tubs.
- Gurgling noises coming from pipes.
- Foul smells from your drains or garbage disposal.
How to fix or prevent clogs:
- Run hot water and dish soap through drains to clear grease.
- Avoid putting coffee grounds, grease, or eggshells down the disposal.
- Consider a mid-winter drain cleaning to prevent backups.
We can inspect your drains with a camera to make sure there’s no lurking issue like tree roots or buildup that could cause a backup.
Hard Water Can Make Winter Worse
Utah’s hard water is a problem all year, but it’s especially hard on your plumbing in winter. Mineral deposits can reduce the efficiency of your water heater and clog pipes.
What you can do now:
- If you notice scale buildup on fixtures or appliances, consider installing a water softener.
- If you already have a softener, check to make sure it’s working properly. Refill salt as needed.
- A mid-season flush of your water heater can help remove any hard water buildup that’s accumulated.
Hard water issues only get worse with time. Addressing them now can protect your plumbing for the long haul.
Invest in a Mid-Winter Plumbing Tune-Up
Winter is tough on plumbing. A professional tune-up can identify hidden problems and help you avoid expensive surprises.
What a tune-up includes:
- Checking for frozen or at-risk pipes.
- Inspecting your water heater for efficiency and safety.
- Cleaning and inspecting drains to prevent backups.
- Ensuring all exposed plumbing is properly insulated.
At SameDay Plumbing, we prioritize emergencies, but our maintenance plans also give you peace of mind. Membership customers get priority service and discounts on repairs, so you’re covered no matter what.
SameDay Plumbing Is Here to Help
Winter isn’t over yet, and neither is the stress on your plumbing system. Don’t wait for something to go wrong—take action now to protect your home. Whether it’s frozen pipes, a struggling water heater, or a slow drain, we’re here 24/7 to keep your plumbing running smoothly.
Call SameDay Plumbing today for a mid-winter checkup. Stay warm, stay safe, and let us help you get through the season worry-free.
