This time of year comes with so much excitement – adorable trick-or-treaters, family together around Thanksgiving tables, and the delight of the holidays. But with the wonderful comes the terrible. The winter weather and bitter temperatures can cause a whole mess of plumbing problems. BW/Cook Service Experts is here with a few preventative measures to help you minimize your chance of facing these common winter plumbing problems.
Frozen Pipes
Frozen pipes are a common plumbing problem for Elkhart. This usually occurs when high water pressure from the main water pipe unites with freezing temperatures. To help keep this from occurring in your home, leave a faucet slightly open to make sure the water can continuously flow through. If you do find a frozen pipe, disable the main water supply to prevent the pipe from bursting. Try thawing the frozen area of the pipe with warm water and if that doesn’t solve the problem, give BW/Cook a call and we’ll send one of our professional plumbers out to look at the trouble.
Broken Water Line
An opening or break in your water pipe could cause significant damage to your home. Water pipe cracks or breaks are commonly a result of a frozen garden hose. If you forget to disconnect your hose from your water spout after a freeze, the ice inside can cause pressure to build up in your home’s water piping and create a leak or a break. To avoid this situation, ensure your garden hoses are drained and disconnected before freezing temperatures set in.
Failing Hot Water Systems
If your hot water heater is not operating as well as expected, confirm the temperature is set high enough. If you have a gas water heater, be sure the pilot light is still lit. If everything is set correctly and lit properly, call BW/Cook Service Experts so we can send out a qualified plumber to find out what’s going on. To avoid this trouble altogether, make sure you are having your hot water heater serviced annually and it’s ideal if you service it well before winter begins. Call 574-218-6404 to be sure you don’t get left with cold water this winter.