Parts of Vancouver Island may enjoy slightly milder temperatures than the mainland for much of the winter season, but freezing temperatures and improper plumbing maintenance still pose a risk to your home during the chillier months. The Super Plumber - Plumbing and Drain Services is here to help if you run into trouble, but it’s also a good idea to try and prevent issues before they happen – especially in the case of a burst pipe or flooding! Below we’ll review some common winter plumbing problems and what you should do.
The Super Plumber - Plumbing and Drain Services is here to save the day with plumbing services in Victoria BC and other areas on the island like Nanaimo, Duncan, and Cowichan. If you need assistance with pipes, drains, emergency service, installations, or renovations, we’re here 24/7 and 365 days a year with upfront rates and guaranteed satisfaction. We can help winterize your plumbing system to reduce the risk of freezes, cracks, and breaks.
1. Check Your Water Heater
When it’s cold, your water heater works harder to maintain a proper temperature. When it is set at a high temperature during sub-zero temps for weeks and months, it can wear down faster than usual. A problem with the heater can lead to improper water temperatures, a low flow, or a loss of hot water supply to your appliances, shower, and sinks.
Ensure the area where your water heater is installed is warm enough and check for cold drafts (you’ll want to locate drafts for home heating efficiency as well). You might need to add caulking to windows or increase your insulation. Keep your heater at a safe temperature of about 120℉ and below 140℉ to avoid scalding. Call us to perform regular maintenance on your heater to keep it working at max efficiency.
2. Take Proper Care of Pipes
Ideally, you’ll want to protect pipes before winter and cold temperatures hit, but it’s never too late. Since you won’t be needing to use water outside, turn it off using the proper valves, usually in the basement or near outer walls. Disconnect your garden hose and cover up any outer water access points. Occasionally run water to keep pipes thawed in areas that are used less often. Keep cabinets containing pipes ajar at night to let heat in.
If a pipe freezes, shut off the main water supply, and you may be able to remedy the situation before it breaks. If your pipes crack or break, give us a call any time, day or night.
To keep pipes warm, your house needs to be warm enough, even when you leave for vacation. Make sure your furnace is in working order. Insulate pipes with foam to help keep them warm.
Signs that you might have problems are: lowered water pressure or you can visibly see ice crystals and freezing occurring on and around your pipes. So, check them regularly, and give The Super Plumber - Plumbing and Drain Services a call if you spot trouble.
3. Maintain Your Drains
Regular drain maintenance is important all year ‘round, and a partially or fully blocked drain can cause an increased chance of damage during the winter. In the kitchen, don’t pour grease or fats down the drains, use a sieve to catch pieces and particles, and regularly flush with boiling hot water. The same goes for the bathroom. You should only flush toilet tissue, waste, and water.
Check drainage areas outdoors for leaves, snow, and ice blockages and clear them. Blocked drains can lead to back-ups and flooding.
If you need drain cleaning experts in Victoria and other island locations like Sidney, Sooke, or beyond, give us a call.
We’re rated A+ and have five stars with the Better Business Bureau. Our customers appreciate our honest, upfront rates, flexible and open appointment availability, clear explanations, and proper clean-up. If you’re in Duncan, Nanaimo, Cowichan, or need a plumber in Victoria BC for winterizing, regular maintenance, or emergency service, you can trust in us.
