Even in sunny Southern California, homeowners can experience plumbing issues as a result of winter weather. Some of these issues can be mitigated, though, with anticipatory maintenance. Care for your home, year round, by checking out these 4 common winter plumbing issues and how to solve them!
- Outdoor Drain Damage
Lower temperatures can contribute to wear and tear on your outdoor drains, making plastic drains especially vulnerable to breaking as a result of contracting and expanding. Keep an eye on your outdoor drains during the winter months, pouring a warm salt water mixture over any drains that may be frosted over. If cracking has already occurred, or you’re just seeking an upgrade, this may be a good time to think about switching to some higher quality steel drains.
- Water Heater Malfunction
On average, water heater units are only expected to perform optimally for about 10-12 years. This means, many homeowners will experience water heater issues at some point in their home. Instead of hopping in an unexpected freezing shower during the cold winter months, be proactive and schedule a water heater inspection with your local plumbers Irvine CA.
- Leaking Water Lines
Minor deterioration in your pipes may have existed undetected during the warmer months, but can become a bigger issue when the weather cools down. Any small splitting or holes are often exacerbated by the lower temperatures, if pipes are not properly insulated or in proper state. Leaks can cause major problems for homeowners, and can be avoided with a comprehensive plumbing inspection before the cold winter months.
- Clogged Drains
Winter often means gathering in the home with family and friends, eating, drinking, and enjoying the cozy weather together. With this, sinks and drains often experience more wear and tear than other months. Any stoppage can freeze, too, this time of year, and cause some bigger plumbing problems for homeowners. Try running boiling water down any blocked sinks, particularly your kitchen sink, to melt any frozen build up. Better yet, contact a plumber Irvine CA to take a closer look at any blocked drains, to ensure there won’t be any long term issues as a result.
Avoid any unnecessary emergency plumbing Irvine CA, by caring for your home plumbing before major issues occur. Visit your local plumbers Irvine CA at Severson Plumbing for all of your plumbing needs, year round!