The Most Common Winter Plumbing Emergencies And How to Prevent Them

When the temperatures drop in Michigan, pipes aren’t the only thing that start to struggle. Homes and commercial buildings start to work overtime due to increased hot water use, furnaces cycling around the clock, and systems being under constant strain.

If you’ve ever had an emergency this time of year, you’re not alone. We respond to the same handful of issues every winter. Most of them are preventable with just a little prep, so we’ve put together a quick checklist to help you stay ahead of them.

Frozen pipes are still the biggest problem in the winter we see. When water inside the pipe freezes, it expands and creates pressure that can cause the pipes to crack or burst. This tends to only happen in areas that don’t get enough heat, like crawl spaces, basements, and garages. To fix this, keep your heat on, insulate any vulnerable pipes, and open cabinet doors to let warm air reach the plumbing.

December is rough on water heaters, hot water runs nonstop this time of year. If you notice your water is taking longer to heat, running out faster than usual, or the unit is making unusual noises, it may be a sign that it’s struggling.

To counteract this, we suggest flushing the tank, insulating the pipes, and checking if the unit is 10+ years old. If something still feels off after making these changes, give us a call.

Cold temperatures and heavy December cooking are a recipe for clogged drains. Kitchen sinks often get overloaded this time of year with grease and food scraps, especially if you’re hosting guests. To avoid clogs, never pour grease down the drain, run hot water while using the garbage disposal, and avoid long, stringy foods like celery or potato skins that can tangle and clog the line.

Common winter heating issues include short cycling, cold rooms, and strange smells or noises. To stay ahead, replace filters, clear vents, schedule a heating checkup, and avoid restricting airflow. If your furnace goes out, your pipes can freeze shortly after, so make this a top priority every winter.

If you’ve lived in Michigan for a while, you know how fast things can warm up. When this happens, sump pumps fail and cause basements to flood. Make sure to test your pump regularly and keep the discharge line clear of ice.

A little preparation goes a long way. If you want complete peace of mind, let JJ & Sons inspect your system before the holidays to make sure you’re set for an enjoyable winter season. Contact us!