Winter in Carrollton, GA, can be tough on your home's plumbing. The cold weather brings with it a unique set of challenges that, if not addressed, can lead to significant problems and costly repairs. At Thompson West Plumbing, we've seen it all and are here to share our expertise. Here are the top five winter plumbing problems and our tips on how to solve them.

1. Frozen Pipes

Frozen pipes are the most notorious of winter plumbing woes. When water inside pipes freezes, it expands, potentially causing the pipe to burst.

Solution: Keep your home heated to at least 55°F, even when you're away. Insulate exposed pipes, and on extremely cold nights, let faucets drip slightly to prevent freezing.

2. Water Heater Failures

Your water heater works overtime during winter to provide hot showers and warm water for household tasks. This extra demand can lead to failures.

Solution: Schedule a maintenance checkup for your water heater before winter hits. Lowering the temperature to 120°F can also reduce strain on the heater.

3. Clogged Drains

With the holidays comes more cooking and, unfortunately, more drain clogs due to grease and food scraps.

Solution: Avoid pouring grease down the drain. Use a drain strainer to catch food scraps and regularly flush drains with hot water.

4. Septic Tank Freezing

Inadequate insulation over a septic tank can lead to freezing during cold spells.

Solution: Ensure your septic tank is properly insulated. Regular septic pumping and maintenance can also prevent freezing.

5. Indoor Flooding from Snow Melt

Rapid melting snow can lead to indoor flooding, especially in basements.

Solution: Clear snow away from your home's foundation. Check and maintain your sump pump to ensure it's ready to handle the extra water.

Conclusion:

Being aware of these common winter plumbing problems and knowing how to prevent them can save you from the headache and expense of emergency repairs. If you need assistance winterizing your home's plumbing or dealing with any plumbing issues, Thompson West Plumbing is here to help. Stay warm and safe this winter, and remember, we're just a call away!