June signals the arrival of winter, and with it comes some of your dreaded plumbing-related issues. You may encounter plumbing issues anytime, but winter worsens the situation. During colder months, ground temperatures drop. Because cold temperatures cause hot water consumption to increase, plumbing issues result.
Maintain your plumbing system in good condition for the next season. Prevent these problems by following a few tips to help you get through the winter without a plumbing emergency.
Water Heater Plumbing Issues
A water heater is essential for your home, especially during the cold months. Water in your plumbing system is colder than usual during the winter, and water heaters have to endure most of the stress. The cold season makes us want to pump more hot water. Over time, the temperature of the water from your heater decreases, hence the need for repair or replacement of your water heaters increases.
Prevention
Pre-winter plumbing inspection: Pre-winter maintenance is one way to monitor your water heater. It can help prevent your water heater from encountering plumbing issues over the winter. Check your water heater for indications of trouble, such as bends, cracks, leaks, or anything unusual. It is also best to check for sediment buildup. We offer a plumbing WOF here and are happy to check out out the condition of you water cylinder.
Plumbing Maintenance: You use water heaters more than usual during winter, but maintenance of your water heater should be all year round, not only in the winter. Also, ensure that the rest of the area surrounding your water heater is in good condition. Look for any signs of water damage, an indicator of leaking. Immediately have it checked before it can progress into something worse.
Drain your water heater: If you live in an area with hard water, your water heater is prone to sediment buildup and causes rusting. Prevent this problem by draining your water heater and checking it for any signs of rust. If you find significant signs of wear, immediately have it fixed or replaced.
Regular inspections are recommended at least once before winter starts. Additionally, keeping an eye on your water heater throughout the winter for any signs of trouble such as leaks or unusual noises is advisable.
Faucet Leaks
Some parts of your home, like faucets, see more action during winter months. With more people in your home, there are more hands to wash and the repeated use of your faucets as you prepare meals. Your toilets take as much beating as the rest, as well, and you may end up having to deal with a few leaks. Water leaks can result in hidden water damage and mould growth. Check your fixtures and have any issues repaired as soon as possible.
Prevention
Fixing existing water leaks: If you leave water leaks unfixed before winter, you will likely meet a bigger problem. Scan all areas of your home and check each to make sure there are no leaks. If you spot any problem, you can hire a professional plumber to help address the issue.
Keep your garden hose: Disconnect your garden hose and store it away for the winter. Water left inside your hose can expand, affecting the connected pipes and faucets and causing cracks and burst pipes.
Seal off any valves: The pipes leading away from your house's heating system are prone to bursting. Sealing off outdoor pipes may protect your home's plumbing during the cold season. If you do not want to use your outdoor faucets during winter, turn them off through shut-off valves.
Clean your outdoor drains: Leaves and debris from autumn can clog your outdoor drains and block your gutters. If not cleaned, water will be stuck in the drain. Clean your drains through autumn and winter to remove any potential blockage so water can flow freely through the drainage.
It's highly recommended to inspect and repair any water leaks before winter sets in to prevent larger issues. Regular maintenance checks can help avoid unexpected problems.
Increased Water Usage and Pressure on Plumbing Systems
Winter in Whangaparaoa doesn't bring freezing pipes, but it does bring increased water usage. With more indoor activities and higher hot water demand, your plumbing system experiences added pressure.
Prevention
Monitor water usage: Be mindful of your water usage during winter. Increased use of hot water can strain your plumbing system, leading to potential issues. Spread out water-intensive activities throughout the day to reduce the load on your system.
Check for pressure issues: High water pressure can damage your plumbing system over time. Ensure that your water pressure is within a safe range. If you notice any pressure issues, consult a plumber to make necessary adjustments.
Regular maintenance: Just like your water heater, the entire plumbing system benefits from regular maintenance. Have a professional plumber inspect your system for any signs of wear and tear, leaks, or other issues that could worsen with increased usage.
Being mindful of your water usage and ensuring your plumbing system is in good shape can help prevent issues caused by the increased demand during winter. If you discover a leak, it’s essential to address it immediately to prevent further damage. You can attempt minor repairs yourself, but for significant leaks, it's best to give us a call on 022 471 9055.
To ensure a worry-free winter season, follow these tips to protect your plumbing system from the cold. Don't hesitate to reach out via out contact form at the bottom of this page. Stay warm and worry-free this winter with the team from Betta Plumbing & Gas Fitting on the sunny Hibiscus Coast!
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