Winter is one of the toughest seasons on your home’s plumbing system. Colder temperatures, increased indoor water use, and frozen ground conditions all create added stress on pipes and fixtures. The result is a higher chance of leaks, clogs, and equipment failures that can quickly turn into costly repairs.
At That Plumber, we help homeowners prepare for winter by understanding the problems most likely to occur. Here are the most common winter plumbing issues and how to avoid them before they disrupt your home. If you’re already noticing winter-related plumbing issues, call That Plumber today or use our contact form to schedule service before the problem worsens.
1. Frozen or Burst Pipes
Frozen pipes are one of the most serious winter plumbing problems. When water freezes, it expands and puts pressure on the pipe walls. This can cause pipes to crack or burst and lead to extensive water damage.
Signs your pipes may be frozen
Look for frost on exposed piping, reduced water flow, or unusual noises when a faucet is turned on. These early warnings can help you react before a rupture occurs.
Preventing frozen pipes
The best protection is proper insulation. Pipes in basements, garages, attics, and crawl spaces benefit from foam insulation or heat tape. Keeping your home at a consistent temperature and allowing warm air to circulate under sinks also helps reduce the risk.
If a pipe appears to be frozen, warming it gently with a hair dryer or heat lamp can help. Avoid open flames and call a professional if you cannot locate the affected area. If you suspect a frozen pipe, don’t wait! Call That Plumber today for fast, reliable service.
2. Clogged Drains
Winter, especially around the holidays, often leads to more time spent cooking and cleaning up after larger meals indoors. Grease, food scraps, and soap residue can quickly accumulate and create clogs. Cold temperatures also cause fats and oils to harden inside pipes, which makes blockages more common.
Preventing drain clogs
Avoid putting grease or thick food waste down the kitchen sink. Run hot water after each use and clean strainers regularly. If a drain slows down or stops completely, boiling water may help melt minor buildup. For more serious clogs, it is safer to call a plumber so you do not damage the drain line.
3. Water Heater Problems
Your water heater works harder in winter because incoming water is colder. This increased workload can reveal underlying issues such as worn components, sediment buildup, or a failing heating element.
Warning signs of a struggling water heater
Look out for inconsistent hot water, strange noises, reduced efficiency, or water around the base of the unit. These problems often become more noticeable in cold weather.
Routine maintenance is the best defense. Flushing the tank and checking the pressure relief valve can prevent major breakdowns. If the unit stops producing hot water, a professional inspection is usually necessary.
4. Sump Pump Backups
Snowmelt and freezing rain can overwhelm sump pumps, especially older pumps or systems that have not been inspected in a while. If the discharge line freezes, water cannot exit the home and the pump will fail.
Reducing sump pump issues
Test your sump pump by slowly adding water to the pit and checking that it activates. Keep the discharge line clear and make sure melting snow is directed away from your home. Insulating exposed piping helps keep water moving even when temperatures fall.
5. Septic System Freezes
Homes that rely on septic systems face additional winter challenges. Frozen lines or frozen tank surfaces can stop waste from moving properly, which may lead to backups or strong odors.
Insulating lines, avoiding long periods of low water use, and scheduling routine septic maintenance before winter are all effective ways to prevent cold-weather septic problems. If your septic or well system isn’t working properly, reach out to That Plumber for immediate assistance.
6. Frozen Well Lines
If your home uses a private well, the supply lines can freeze during extreme cold. This stops water flow and may cause the pump to overheat if it continues running.
You can prevent this by insulating exposed well components and keeping the area around the well clear of snow. If you suspect the lines are frozen, switch off the pump until the freeze is resolved.
7. Basement Moisture and Flooding
Rapid thaws, melting snow, and heavy winter rain can overwhelm gutters and perimeter drains. Water may seep into the basement if the drainage system cannot handle the volume.
To reduce the risk, make sure downspouts are clear, drainage paths are open, and sump pumps are functioning. Addressing moisture early prevents mold growth and long-term structural damage.
Prepare Your Home for Winter with That Plumber
Understanding the most common winter plumbing issues is the first step to keeping your home safe throughout the colder months. Regular maintenance, early inspections, and proper preparation make a big difference in preventing costly damage.
If you notice frozen pipes, slow drains, inconsistent hot water, or any other winter plumbing concern, That Plumber is here to help. Our licensed professionals can troubleshoot problems quickly and protect your home from further damage.
Contact That Plumber today for reliable winter plumbing services and expert repair solutions.