Why You Should Schedule a Winter Plumbing Inspection

There’s never a good time to have a plumbing problem, but winter weather often makes issues seem even worse. Colder weather can contribute to a host of plumbing issues, from malfunctioning water heaters and slow leaks to burst pipes.

One of the best ways to avoid an emergency is to schedule a winter plumbing inspection with Poseidon Plumbing. Seasonal plumbing upkeep is critical to keeping the system in good condition and catching signs of impending trouble before they turn into a disaster. With winter-ready plumbing, you can feel confident that your home will be safe and comfortable all season long.

If you’re not sure whether you need an inspection, consider these plumbing maintenance benefits. 

Prevent Frozen and Burst Pipes

Although the likelihood of frozen pipes is lower in North Carolina than elsewhere, there’s always a chance that the temperatures could drop enough to cause plumbing problems, especially at higher elevations. A plumbing inspection can help with pipe freeze prevention. A plumber can help determine whether your pipes are at risk for freezing and recommend strategies to ensure you have winter-ready plumbing. 

In most cases, this means adding insulation to the pipes in vulnerable areas, like attics and crawl spaces. Sealing air leaks and rerouting pipes toward your home’s interior may also be necessary to keep them from freezing and bursting when the weather turns bitterly cold. 

Improve Water Heater Reliability

Cold showers are never a welcome surprise, but discovering that you don’t have hot water on a cold winter morning is even worse. A malfunctioning water heater can cause other issues, too, like low water pressure, high energy bills, and poor water quality. 

A winter plumbing inspection includes evaluating the water heater to ensure it’s working properly and nothing requires attention. A plumber can flush the water heater to eliminate sediment that puts strain on the appliance and restricts water flow, and inspect and tune up the major components to ensure proper functioning. 

Stop Damaging Leaks Before They Cause Damage

Plumbing leaks don’t have to be visible to cause significant water damage or waste gallons of water. A hole as small as the head of the pin is enough to cause damage, and by the time you realize there’s an issue, the cost for repair (and what you’ve spent on water bills) is going to be substantial.

Winter weather makes it difficult to detect leaks because the air is drier and water evaporates faster. A winter plumbing inspection ensures early detection of these issues so you can fix them before it’s too late.

In addition to checking for damage to the pipes, the plumbing inspector will also examine the joints, fittings, and pipe insulation for damage, wear and tear, or corrosion. Fixing these issues now can stop leaks before they start.

Stop Clogs Before They Start 

Winter brings with it the holiday season and the celebrations that can strain your plumbing system. Preparing large meals and hosting guests can strain your plumbing, increasing the risk of clogs and backups. 

Having a plumber perform a cold-weather plumbing check before the hustle and bustle of the holidays will ensure that your pipes and drains are up to the challenge of increased use. They’ll check for signs of impending trouble, like slow drains or low water pressure, which indicate buildup that could cause a clog. Dealing with issues like sediment accumulation or deep-set blockages in the system will prevent a plumbing emergency and damage to your home.

Solve Drainage Problems 

Winter is synonymous with foul weather, and storms can reveal drainage problems around your home. A plumbing inspection checks the condition of your outdoor drainage systems, including drains, gutters, and downspouts, to ensure they’ll work properly. If you have a sump pump, that also receives some attention, so you don’t need to worry about flooding, ice dams, or foundation and roof damage. 

Make a Plumbing Inspection and Maintenance Appointment Today 

All too often, homeowners only call a plumber when they have a plumbing emergency. With regular maintenance, you can avoid the stress of a burst pipe or backed-up sink and enjoy the peace of mind that comes from knowing that your system is in good shape. Not to mention, a winter plumbing inspection costs much less and often takes a fraction of the time of a repair, saving you time and money. 

Poseidon Plumbing, the top-rated plumbers in Orange and Alamance counties, is here to help you enjoy a winter without plumbing problems. Call us at (336) 202-1287 to schedule seasonal maintenance and get some helpful plumbing inspection tips.