Common Winter Plumbing Issues

As the winter weather starts to take hold, it’s important to be aware of possible plumbing issues
that could arise. For example, low temperatures can cause pipes to freeze and burst, leading to
costly repairs.

In this blog post, our South West Plumbing team will discuss the most common winter plumbing
problems and how you can prevent them from occurring in your home or business.


Frozen Pipes

When the water inside pipes freezes, it expands and puts tremendous pressure on the pipe
walls. If the force is strong enough, it can cause pipes to burst and lead to major flooding in
homes or businesses. To prevent frozen pipes, keep your interior temperature above 55
degrees Fahrenheit at all times during the winter months.
Additionally, insulation can be added around exposed pipes in your basement or attic. If you do
notice a frozen pipe, turn off the water immediately and contact a plumber for assistance.

Low Water Pressure

If you start to notice low water pressure, it might indicate an issue with blockages in your
plumbing system due to sediment buildup or corrosion over time. Also, colder temperatures can
cause water force to drop! It’s best to contact a plumber as soon as possible if you notice any
signs of low water pressure so they can identify the problem quickly and fix it before further
damage occurs.


Leaking Faucets

Leaky faucets are another common issue during colder months because of expansion caused
by temperature changes along metal components inside a faucet handle or valve stem. To
prevent leaking faucets, check them regularly for wear and tear or rust buildup; replace any
broken parts immediately if necessary.


Protect Your Plumbing This Winter With South West Plumbing

No one wants to be stuck freezing at home and have a malfunctioning plumbing system. If you
find yourself in that predicament this winter, the certified plumbers and technicians at South
West Plumbing can help. We’ve been serving King, Pierce, and Snohomish Counties for more
than 40 years, and in that time, we’ve seen every plumbing problem imaginable.

Call 206-932-1777 today or request a service appointment online.