Winter can be tough on your home’s plumbing system. From freezing temperatures to increased water usage during the holidays, the colder months bring unique challenges that can lead to costly damage if left unaddressed.
At Chisholm Plumbing Heating & Air Conditioning, we’re here to help homeowners in Greer, SC, and beyond avoid the most common winter plumbing issues. In this blog, we’ll share practical tips to protect your plumbing system this winter and how we can assist you with professional plumbing services when needed.
Keep reading to learn more, and feel free to explore our plumbing services for solutions tailored to your needs.
Frozen Pipes – A Winter Plumbing Nightmare
One of the most common and damaging plumbing problems in winter is frozen pipes. When temperatures drop, the water inside your pipes can freeze, expand, and cause blockages—or worse, lead to burst pipes.
Warning Signs of Frozen Pipes
- Frost on exposed pipes.
- Little to no water flow from faucets.
- Unusual smells coming from your drains or faucets.
How to Prevent Frozen Pipes
- Insulate Your Pipes: Use foam pipe insulation for exposed pipes in unheated areas like basements or crawl spaces.
- Keep a Steady Temperature: Maintain indoor temperatures of at least 55°F, even when you’re not home.
- Open Cabinet Doors: Allow warm air to circulate around under-sink pipes by keeping cabinet doors open.
- Let Faucets Drip: A small trickle of water can prevent pressure buildup that leads to pipe bursts.
If you suspect a pipe has frozen, don’t wait for it to burst. Shut off the main water supply and contact our team immediately through our emergency plumbing services.
Burst Pipes – Preventing Costly Damage
A burst pipe is one of the most stressful plumbing emergencies homeowners face in winter. When water freezes and expands inside a pipe, the resulting pressure can cause the pipe to crack or rupture, leading to serious water damage in your home.
Common Areas Where Pipes Burst
- Outdoor hoses or faucets that haven’t been winterized.
- Pipes in unheated areas like basements, attics, or garages.
- Older plumbing systems with worn or corroded pipes.
How to Prevent Burst Pipes
- Disconnect Outdoor Hoses: Drain and store your garden hoses for the winter. Shut off and insulate outdoor faucets.
- Seal Gaps and Cracks: Prevent cold air from reaching pipes by sealing gaps around windows, doors, and walls.
- Know Where Your Shut-Off Valve Is: In case of an emergency, knowing how to shut off your water supply can minimize damage.
At Chisholm Plumbing Heating & Air Conditioning, we’re ready to help if you suspect or experience a burst pipe. Visit our plumbing repair page to learn how we can get things back to normal quickly.
Water Heater Issues in Winter: Staying Warm and Comfortable
Winter is when your water heater works its hardest, and it’s also when problems are most likely to arise. A malfunctioning water heater can disrupt daily activities like showering, cleaning, and cooking—especially during the holidays.
Common Water Heater Problems in Winter
- Insufficient Hot Water: Cold temperatures increase demand, which can overwhelm older or under-maintained systems.
- Strange Noises: Sediment buildup in the tank can cause popping or rumbling sounds.
- Higher Energy Bills: A water heater working inefficiently may struggle to maintain temperature, using more energy.
How to Keep Your Water Heater Running Smoothly
- Schedule Regular Maintenance: Flush the tank annually to remove sediment and check for potential issues.
- Insulate the Tank and Pipes: Reduce heat loss by adding insulation to the water heater and nearby pipes.
- Upgrade When Needed: If your system is over 10 years old or struggling to meet your needs, consider a new, energy-efficient model.
For expert water heater maintenance, repairs, or upgrades, trust Chisholm Plumbing Heating & Air Conditioning. Check out our water heater services for more details.
Avoiding Clogged Drains in Winter
Clogged drains are a year-round nuisance, but winter brings its own set of challenges. Holiday cooking, colder temperatures, and increased indoor activity can all contribute to drain blockages that disrupt your household routine.
Why Winter Worsens Clogs
- Grease Build-Up: Cooking oils and fats solidify faster in cold pipes, leading to blockages.
- Increased Usage: With more time spent indoors, sinks and drains see heavier use.
- Holiday Food Scraps: Extra food waste from gatherings often ends up down the drain, causing backups.
Tips to Prevent Clogs
- Dispose of Grease Properly: Never pour grease or oil down the drain. Instead, collect it in a container and throw it away.
- Use Drain Strainers: Catch debris like food scraps and hair before they enter your pipes.
- Schedule Regular Cleanings: Preventative maintenance can stop small blockages from becoming bigger issues.
If you’re dealing with stubborn clogs, our drain cleaning services are here to help. Don’t let a blocked drain ruin your winter plans!
Winterizing Outdoor Plumbing to Avoid Damage
Outdoor plumbing is especially vulnerable to freezing temperatures, making winter preparation essential. Neglecting hoses, faucets, or irrigation systems can lead to cracked pipes, leaks, or water damage when temperatures drop.
Common Outdoor Plumbing Risks in Winter
- Frozen Outdoor Faucets: Left unprotected, they can freeze and crack, causing leaks in your home.
- Burst Hose Bibs: Water trapped in hoses or spigots can expand as it freezes, damaging the connection.
- Irrigation System Issues: Underground sprinkler lines can freeze and burst if not properly drained.
How to Protect Outdoor Plumbing
- Disconnect and Drain Hoses: Remove hoses, drain them, and store them indoors for the winter.
- Shut Off Outdoor Water Supply: Locate the shut-off valve for outdoor faucets and close it. Open the faucets to drain remaining water.
- Install Insulation Covers: Use foam covers or faucet protectors to shield outdoor spigots from freezing temperatures.
Winterizing your outdoor plumbing now can save you from costly repairs later. Learn more about maintaining your water and gas lines with Chisholm Plumbing Heating & Air Conditioning.
What to Do in a Plumbing Emergency This Winter
Even with the best preparation, plumbing emergencies can still happen during the winter months. Knowing how to act quickly can help minimize damage and save you money.
Steps to Take in a Plumbing Emergency
- Shut Off the Water Supply: Locate your home’s main shut-off valve and turn it off to stop the flow of water.
- Assess the Situation Safely: If there’s flooding, avoid standing water to prevent electrical hazards.
- Call a Professional: Don’t attempt DIY fixes that could worsen the issue. Contact our team at Chisholm Plumbing for fast and reliable help.
When to Call a Plumber
- You notice a burst pipe or significant water leakage.
- Your drains or toilets are severely clogged and overflowing.
- Your water heater stops working or shows signs of failure.
For emergencies, you can count on Chisholm Plumbing Heating & Air Conditioning. Explore our service area to see how we can assist you, or contact us directly for urgent help.
Wrap Up Your Winter Plumbing Protection Plan 🛠️
Winter brings unique challenges to your plumbing system, but with proactive measures and expert support, you can keep your home safe and functional all season long. Whether it’s insulating pipes, preventing clogs, or preparing your water heater for colder temperatures, the team at Chisholm Plumbing Heating & Air Conditioning is here to help.
If you’re ready to winterize your home or need urgent plumbing repairs, explore our comprehensive plumbing services. From drain cleaning to water heater maintenance, we provide tailored solutions for every need. For emergencies like frozen pipes or burst water lines, don’t hesitate to contact us for fast, reliable service.
Serving Greer, SC, and surrounding areas, our dedicated team is just a call away. Learn more about our service area and discover why homeowners trust Chisholm for all their plumbing needs. Stay warm, stay safe, and let us take the worry out of your winter plumbing maintenance!