Plumbing disasters can happen any time of year, but there is no question that the winter months bring different challenges to homeowners in the Flathead Valley. So preventative planning and maintenance is needed to protect against potential cold weather plumbing damage.
Below is a list of common winter plumbing problem that you can encounter in an average year. This list will help you identify whether it’s time to call the plumbing professionals at Central Heating, Cooling, Plumbing and Electrical and protect your home against more damage.
Frozen Pipes
You’re pipes are at serious risk of freezing as the winter months bring in the frigid temperatures. An ounce of prevention can help protect against potential cold weather damage. If you do encounter an issue with frozen pipes, you’ll need to shut off the main water supply as soon as possible. This will reduce the possibility of your pipes bursting as you reduce the pressure in the pipes. After you’ve done this, it is important to call Central Heating, Cooling, Plumbing and Electrical to avoid serious damage to the rest of your system.
Water Line Leak or Break
Blockages can be caused by standing water in your pipes freezing, after the temperatures have dropped. Over time, serious pressure can build up in your pipes, potentially causing them to break or leak. If you think it is possible that you have an ice blockage in your lines, use the shut off valve in your home to protect against damage until the blockage is melted away. If the blockage persists, it is time to call in the plumbing professionals.
Poor Heating
In the summer, boiler systems stay inactive for months at a time, but as it gets colder and we crank up the heat again – it puts great amounts of sudden strain on the system, which unfortunately can lead to unexpected breakdowns at the worst possible time. If it feels like your boiler system is not pushing out the amount of heat needed, you may want to check your boiler pressure and check to be certain the power source is working. In the event there is a problem, calling a professional is generally the fastest, safest option to identify and fix the issue.
Water Heater Breakdown
Nobody likes an unexpected cold shower on a cold winter day. but that’s exactly what you may get when your have water heater failure. Typically, the standard water heater has a life span of about 10 years. If you notice your water heater making strange noises or not doing its job, it may be time to call a plumbing professional to assess the situation and possibly consider getting replacement.
Whether it’s spring, summer, winter or fall in the Flathead Valley…As always, your Comfort is our Central concern! Call 406-756-6656 for all your heating, cooling, plumbing and drain cleaning needs.
***We service Kalispell, Whitefish, Columbia Falls, Bigfork, Polson, Lakeside, Somers and the surrounding Flathead Valley***