Common Winter Plumbing Problems in Albuquerque and How to Avoid Them

A burst pipe on a freezing morning can turn your home into a disaster zone—water gushing everywhere, ceilings caving in, and floors flooding within minutes. Clogged drains can leave sinks overflowing and toilets backing up at the worst possible time. Plumbing problems like these become more common and severe in winter, thanks to freezing temperatures and increased household water use. 

With the right winter plumbing maintenance, you can prevent costly damage and keep your home running smoothly. And if things go wrong, emergency plumbing in Albuquerque is just a call away to get everything back in order quickly.

Common Albuquerque Plumbing Problems: The Real Culprits

Ignoring winter plumbing maintenance can lead to significant issues, many of which require immediate attention. Here are the most common winter plumbing issues homeowners face during the colder months:

• Frozen Pipes: When temperatures drop, the water inside your pipes can freeze and expand, putting intense pressure on the pipe walls. If left unchecked, the pipe can crack or burst, leading to major water damage and expensive repairs. You don’t want to deal with a flooded home in the middle of winter!
• Clogged Drains in Winter: Grease, fats, and oils from holiday cooking may seem harmless when rinsed down the sink, but in cold temperatures, they solidify and clog your pipes. Combined with food scraps and soap scum, this can slow your drains to a crawl.
• Septic Tank Problems: If your home relies on a septic system, winter can slow down the decomposition process, leading to backups and even overflows. Cold weather makes it harder for bacteria to break down waste, increasing the risk of blockages.
• Water Heater Failure: Water heaters work overtime in cold months, and if they’re not maintained, they can fail when you need them most. Sediment buildup, faulty thermostats, and overuse are common culprits.
• Faulty Sump Pumps: A sump pump keeps your basement from flooding, but if its discharge line freezes, it can’t do its job. Water backs up, and before you know it, you’re dealing with water damage that could have been avoided.
• Outdoor Faucet and Hose Issues: Leaving hoses attached to outdoor faucets can cause ice buildup in your pipes, leading to cracks and leaks. Once a pipe bursts, you could be dealing with significant plumbing problems inside your home.
• Leaky Pipes: Temperature changes cause pipes to expand and contract. If you already have a small leak, the winter cold can make it worse, leading to hidden water damage and increased water bills.
• Low Water Pressure: Noticing weak water flow from your faucets? Frozen pipes or hidden leaks could be the cause. Low pressure might seem like an inconvenience, but it could be a warning sign of bigger issues.
• Malfunctioning Garbage Disposals: Holiday meal prep means more food scraps going down the drain. Combine that with cold temperatures, and your garbage disposal can clog or break down, leaving you with a smelly, unusable sink.
• Burst Pipes: A frozen pipe that expands too much will eventually burst, unleashing a flood of water into your home. Water damage from a burst pipe can ruin floors, walls, and belongings, leading to thousands of dollars in repairs.

Ignoring these plumbing problems can turn into a nightmare, but Steward’s Plumbing is here to help. If you’re facing any of these issues or need emergency plumbing in Albuquerque, give us a call at 505-578-1540 or contact us online for expert assistance.

Winter Plumbing Maintenance: How to Avoid These Issues?

A little winter plumbing maintenance now can save you from expensive repairs later. Preventing frozen pipes, leaks, and breakdowns keeps your home running smoothly and your wallet happy.

Cold-Weather Plumbing Tips

Follow these cold-weather plumbing tips to keep your plumbing system in top shape:

• Inspect Exposed Pipes: Check for signs of wear and tear, especially in unheated areas like basements and attics. Repair any damage before winter hits.
• Seal Gaps and Cracks: Cold air can enter through small cracks near pipes, increasing the risk of freezing. Use caulk or spray foam to seal these openings.
• Check for Leaks: Even small leaks can freeze and worsen in winter. Inspect under sinks and around fixtures regularly.
• Drain Outdoor Faucets and Hoses: Disconnect garden hoses, drain outdoor spigots, and shut off their water supply to prevent freezing.
• Insulate Pipes: Wrap exposed pipes in foam insulation or use heating cables to keep them from freezing.
• Service Your Water Heater: Flush out sediment buildup and test the thermostat to ensure it’s working efficiently.
• Test Sump Pumps: Pour water into the sump pit to make sure the pump activates and drains properly.
• Keep Cabinet Doors Open: Opening cabinet doors under sinks allows warm air to circulate around pipes, reducing the risk of freezing.
• Maintain Indoor Temperature: Set your thermostat to a consistent temperature, even when you’re not home. A sudden temperature drop can increase the risk of frozen pipes.
• Preventing Frozen Pipes: Use heating cables, allow faucets to drip slightly on extremely cold nights, and keep the thermostat above 55°F when away. The National Weather Service recommends these steps to protect your plumbing from freezing and avoid costly burst pipes.

Contact Albuquerque Plumbing Specialists Today

Plumbing problems don’t wait, and neither should you. Whether you’re dealing with a burst pipe, a failing water heater, or a stubborn drain clog, Steward’s Plumbing has you covered. With years of experience handling residential and commercial plumbing, our skilled team provides reliable, affordable, and tailored solutions to fit your needs.

From comprehensive plumbing services to burst pipe repair services, drain cleaning, water heater repairs, and water line repair, we handle it all. Call 505-578-1540 or contact us online to schedule an appointment. Get the expert plumbing solutions your home or business deserves!