How to avoid common plumbing problems during Indianapolis winters

Winter can be a difficult time for the plumbing in Indianapolis homes. As temperatures drop and icy conditions prevail, plumbing can suffer leaks and serious damage. Cold weather can cause pipes to freeze, water heaters to struggle, and drains to clog, all of which can interfere with your home's comfort and safety. Fortunately, the most common winter plumbing problems can be avoided with some knowledge and basic tips.

Pipes freezing

When temperatures drop, the water inside pipes can freeze and expand, putting significant pressure on the pipe walls. If this pressure becomes too great, the pipe can burst, leading to water damage and costly repairs. Pipes that are located in unheated areas of the home, such as basements, crawl spaces, attics, and garages, are particularly vulnerable to freezing. To keep that from happening, insulate exposed pipes in unheated areas using foam insulation or heat tape, open cabinet doors to allow warm air to circulate around pipes, and keep the thermostat set to at least 55°F, even when you're away from home. Let faucets drip slowly on especially cold nights to keep water moving.

Pipes bursting

Burst pipes are often the result of prolonged freezing, where the pressure of expanding ice inside the pipe causes the metal or plastic to crack. The most common areas for burst pipes in Indianapolis homes are in basements, attics, and crawl spaces where pipes are more exposed to freezing temperatures. However, even pipes inside walls or under floors can freeze if the home is inadequately insulated or left unheated during a cold snap. Make sure you know the location of your water shutoff valve so you can act quickly in case of an emergency.

Water heater issues

Winter places extra demand on water heaters, as the incoming water supply is colder and requires more energy to heat. This can strain older or poorly maintained water heaters, leading to issues such as insufficient hot water, slow heating, or complete failure. Signs of water heater trouble include a lack of hot water or water that runs cold quickly and loud noises such as popping or rumbling, which may indicate sediment buildup. To prevent water heater issues, insulate the water heater with a special insulating blanket, flush the tank annually to remove sediment, and set the water heater to a temperature of around 120°F to avoid overworking the unit and reduce energy consumption.

Clogged drains

Clogged drains tend to become more frequent in Indianapolis homes during the winter due to increased usage of plumbing systems, as families spend more time indoors and host holiday gatherings. Grease, fats, and oils from cooking can build up in kitchen drains and solidify more quickly in the colder months, leading to blockages. In addition, hair, soap scum, and other debris can cause clogs in bathroom drains and showers.

Failing sump pumps

Cold weather can cause sump pumps to freeze, rendering them ineffective when they're needed most. To prevent sump pump failure, insulate the sump pump discharge line to keep it from freezing. Make sure the discharge line is clear of debris and positioned to drain water away from the foundation and test the sump pump before winter to ensure it's working properly.

Outdoor plumbing challenges

Outdoor faucets, hoses, and sprinkler systems are also vulnerable to freezing during the winter months. Avoid outdoor plumbing issues by disconnecting and draining garden hoses before freezing weather. Turn off the water supply to outdoor faucets and drain any remaining water by opening the faucet. Drain all the water from your sprinkler system's pipes and valves before winter arrives.

Prevention is better than repair

Or you can do what many of your Indianapolis neighbors do ... and turn the work of getting your home's plumbing ready for winter over to professionals. We suggest the plumbing experts from Johnson Heating, Cooling, and Plumbing. They'll look over your home and make sure your plumbing is ready for winter's worst.

Why not schedule a visit today? Call Johnson Heating, Cooling, and Plumbing today at (317) 881-7738 or schedule service online. We'll help you make the wise choice for your home comfort and ensure you're ready for this winter.