Functional plumbing is an integral part of day to day life in every season, but in winter it can be especially crucial. As the amount of time we’re indoors increases, we may find ourselves utilizing our home plumbing more often. This is why seasonal plumbing checks are recommended, but sometimes it’s good to know what to look out for in case of a plumbing emergency. From frozen pipes to low water pressure to clogged drains, check out Trademasters’ winter plumbing tips to avoid issues and how to know when to call in a professional. Already need a plumber near you? Call Trademasters today at (800)644-6400!

Common Winter Plumbing Problems

Issue #1: Frozen Pipes

Frozen pipes are one of a few common winter plumbing problems but there are ways you can help your plumbing stay fluid. 

Preventing Them From Freezing

Prevent your pipes from freezing by letting faucets drip throughout the day and overnight. By leaving just a tiny bit of water flowing through your plumbing, it helps to prevent stationary water from freezing.

Another way to prevent frozen pipes is to keep your home’s temperature set to at least 55°F to keep pipes warm. Having your thermostat stay at or above that temperature, even when you’re traveling or not home, will help water not to freeze.

On the outside of your home, remove hoses and install insulated covers over outdoor spigots. Make sure to shut off interior valves feeding exterior faucets or spigots if available. 

One final tip for avoiding freezing pipes is to wrap any exposed pipes in insulation. Pipes found in a basement, garage, crawl space, or outside your home are more likely to freeze so adding insulation can help them retain heat. 

How To Tell If Pipes Are Frozen

Three signs your pipes are frozen include frost or ice on the outside of the pipes, no water flow from faucets, and banging or gurgling sounds. If you experience any or all of these symptoms, you likely need to call a professional plumber. Let Trademasters be the plumber you call for any frozen pipe repair you’re facing. Contact us today to get your faucets running again in no time!

Issue #2: Low Water Pressure

No one likes low water pressure, especially when you’re trying to warm up after playing in the snow. 

Preventing Low Water Pressure

Similarly to preventing frozen pipes, insulating any exposed plumbing pipes is a great way to avoid experiencing low water pressure in winter. Keeping your home at a consistent temperature above 55°F and letting faucets drip are also good ways to keep water moving and prevent this issue.

If your preventative measures couldn’t hold up in the freezing temperatures, don’t fret—Trademasters plumbing services are here to help! Our experts will help you weather the seasons with plumbing repairs, installations, and services when you need them.

Issue #3: Clogged Drains

Whichever type of drain that’s clogged, it can be a huge inconvenience. Try out these plumbing tricks and tips to avoid the clog this holiday season.

Preventing Drain Clogs

The simplest way to avoid clogging a drain is to make sure whatever is going down is in small pieces, malleable, and easily decomposed. Keep things like potato peels, eggshells, and starch away from your garbage disposal so it remains unclogged. Run the garbage disposal and flush early, use a drain strainer, and clean out your drains periodically to avoid a clogged drain service during the holidays. Make sure your plumbing is always ready for guests with the help of a Trademasters’ plumber near you! We handle the clogged drains so your home can be high-functioning all winter long.

Wondering what to do about frozen pipes or low water pressure this winter? Contact Trademasters and join our home services membership program so you never have to worry about a plumbing emergency again!