Emergency Plumbing Problems You Never Want to Ignore
Winter storms in South Jersey bring more than just snow and icy roads—they can wreak havoc on your plumbing system, turning minor issues into full-blown emergencies. Knowing how to handle these situations is critical to avoiding costly damage.
With freezing temperatures and unpredictable conditions, plumbing problems are all too common. Ignoring these issues can lead to bigger headaches, so acting fast is key.
Frozen Pipes
Frozen pipes are a leading winter plumbing issue. Since water expands as it turns to ice, this can cause your pipes to crack or burst, leading to flooding and severe water damage.
- Locate the issue. If water isn’t flowing from a particular faucet, the pipe leading to it may be frozen.
- Thaw carefully. Use a hair dryer, space heater, or warm towels to thaw a frozen pipe.
Leaking Pipes
Winter storms create additional pressure on aging or weakened pipes, and what starts as a slow drip can worsen dramatically. Left unchecked, leaking pipes can cause water damage to your walls, floors, and ceilings, in addition to promoting the growth of mold and mildew.
- Use pipe tape or an emergency pipe repair clamp for temporary fixes.
- Keep cabinets open in places like kitchens and bathrooms to allow warm air to reach pipes and prevent further freezing.
Dripping Faucets
A dripping faucet may seem like a minor inconvenience, but during a winter storm, it could signal bigger issues. Freezing temperatures can cause pressure buildups in your system, and that seemingly insignificant drip can indicate a looming major leak.
- Check the faucet and its connections for visible damage or loosening.
- Leave faucets dripping intentionally during a freeze to prevent pressure from building inside the pipes.
Clogged Drains
Clogged drains seem to happen at the worst times, and winter storms are no exception. Whether it’s excess debris in your kitchen sink or grease that has solidified due to freezing temperatures, a clogged drain can lead to sink overflows, foul odors, and water backups.
- Avoid pouring boiling water down the drain, as this could cause further damage if the pipes are metal or already freezing.
- Never use chemical drain cleaners, as they can corrode pipes and create more problems.
Sewer Line Backups
Heavy snow and ice can disrupt sewer systems, leading to backups. Blocked sewer lines can cause waste to back up into your home, flooding bathrooms and leaving behind unsanitary conditions that are costly to clean up.
- Watch for warning signs, such as slow-draining water, multiple clogs across your home, or a strong odor coming from your drains.
- Check for standing water outside near the sewer line access point, as this is a common indication of a blockage.
Tips to Prevent Future Emergencies
When it comes to plumbing emergencies, it’s always better to address small problems before they snowball into costly disasters. While winter plumbing emergencies can’t always be avoided, some preventative steps can help reduce your risk.
- Insulate your pipes: Use pipe insulation or heat tape to protect pipes in unheated areas like basements, attics, or crawl spaces.
- Check outdoor plumbing: Disconnect garden hoses and shut off outdoor water valves before freezing temperatures hit.
- Schedule a winter inspection: Having a professional plumber inspect your system during can help identify vulnerabilities before storms start.
Stay warm, stay safe, and trust Mr. Rooter Plumbing of South Jersey to keep your plumbing in top shape this winter, no matter the weather. Contact us today to schedule an emergency plumbing service.
