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When the weather outside turns cold, you might notice your plumbing acting up. Clogged drains, slow pipes, and backups seem to happen more frequently—but is there really a connection? The short answer is yes. Plumbing clogs are more common during colder weather. Here's why and what you can do to keep your pipes running smoothly all winter long.
Why Are Plumbing Clogs More Common in Colder Weather?
Cold weather can put extra strain on your plumbing system for several reasons:
Grease Buildup in Kitchen Drains
During winter months, holidays bring extra cooking, which often means more grease and food scraps going down the sink. Cold temperatures can cause grease to solidify quickly in your pipes, leading to blockages.Frozen Pipes
When temperatures drop below freezing, poor insulation can cause water pipes to develop ice blockages. This not only restricts water flow but can also lead to bursts when the ice expands.Higher Water Usage Indoors
Families tend to spend more time indoors in winter, which increases wear and tear on your plumbing system. From showers to laundry to dishwashing, your drains have to handle the load.Tree Root Growth
Colder weather signals tree roots to seek water sources underground. Roots can invade sewer lines or weaker plumbing pipes, restricting flow and causing stubborn clogs.
Tips for Avoiding Plumbing Clogs in Cold Weather
Now that we know why plumbing clogs happen more often in the winter, here’s how you can prevent them:
1. Be Mindful About What Goes Down Your Drains
Avoid pouring grease, oils, or fats down the kitchen sink. Instead, collect them in a jar for disposal. Use strainers or drain guards to catch food particles, hair, and debris.
2. Run Hot Water Regularly
Hot water can help dissolve grease and flush out materials that may be building up in your pipes. Be sure to occasionally run hot water through rarely used drains.
3. Insulate Your Pipes
For areas with freezing temperatures, wrap exposed pipes with foam insulation to maintain water flow. This is especially crucial for pipes in basements, crawl spaces, or unheated areas.
4. Protect Your Outdoor Plumbing
Disconnect garden hoses and shut off outdoor faucets. When water freezes in exterior plumbing, it can cause clogs or even damage connected pipes.
5. Watch What You Flush
Only flush toilet paper and human waste. Items like wipes, hygiene products, and paper towels can easily cause blockages.
6. Schedule Professional Drain Cleaning
A proactive way to prevent clogs is by scheduling regular drain cleaning. Technicians use advanced tools to clear and maintain your plumbing system, keeping it in peak condition.
7. Monitor for Tree Roots
If you’ve had issues with tree roots before, consider a sewer inspection using a camera. It’s better to address minor invasions now than deal with a major blockage later.
8. Run Garbage Disposal Responsibly
Avoid overloading your garbage disposal with fibrous foods (like celery) or starchy substances (like pasta or potatoes). Always run cold water while using it.
9. Flush Your Drains with Vinegar and Baking Soda
Once a month, clean your drains by pouring a cup of baking soda followed by a cup of vinegar. After 10-15 minutes, flush with boiling water to help clear buildup.
10. Call the Professionals for Persistent Clogs
If you’ve tried DIY solutions without success, it’s time to bring in the experts. Running store-bought drain cleaners repeatedly can damage your pipes without solving the root issue.
Drain Cleaning in Dallas, TX
Dealing with a plumbing clog during a Dallas winter is never fun, but our team at Rescue Air and Plumbing is here to help! We offer top-notch drain and sewer services to keep your system running smoothly, no matter the weather. From routine drain cleaning to emergency clog removal, we’ve got your back.
Give us a call today at (972) 201-3253 to schedule your service. Our experienced professionals will go above and beyond to restore your plumbing and keep your home worry-free all winter long!