Protect Your Northern Virginia Plumbing This Winter
Winter can be tough on your home’s plumbing system in Northern Virginia. Freezing temperatures, increased water usage, and aging pipes often lead to unexpected plumbing issues during the colder months. At Liberty Plumbing, we help homeowners stay ahead of winter plumbing problems before they turn into costly repairs.
Here are five of the most common winter plumbing issues and what you can do to prevent them.
Frozen Pipes
Frozen pipes are one of the most serious winter plumbing problems. When water freezes, it expands—placing immense pressure on pipes and often causing them to crack or burst. Common causes include:
- Poorly insulated pipes
- Exposed plumbing in basements, crawl spaces, or exterior walls
- Extended periods of sub-freezing temperatures
To prevent frozen pipes, be sure to insulate exposed pipes and keep cabinets open under sinks to allow warm air to circulate.
- Burst Pipes
If a frozen pipe thaws suddenly, it can burst and release large amounts of water into your home, causing severe water damage. Warning signs include:
- Frost on pipes
- Reduced water pressure
- Unusual bulging in pipe sections
Be sure to let faucets drip during extreme cold and maintain consistent indoor temperatures.
- Water Heater Problems
Cold winter temperatures force water heaters to work harder, especially in households with increased hot water demand. Common winter water heater issues include:
- Inconsistent hot water
- Strange noises from the tank
- Reduced efficiency or complete failure
Be sure to schedule routine water heater maintenance with Liberty Plumbing to ensure peak performance.
- Clogged Drains and Sewer Lines
Holiday gatherings often mean increased cooking, grease disposal, and food waste, which can lead to drain clogs or sewer line backups. Common winter contributors include:
- Grease and fat buildup
- Food scraps and coffee grounds
- Tree root intrusion seeking moisture
Avoid pouring grease down drains and use sink strainers to catch debris.
- Outdoor Plumbing Issues
Outdoor faucets, sprinkler systems, and hoses are especially vulnerable during winter if not properly winterized. Common problems include:
- Frozen hose bibs
- Cracked outdoor pipes
- Leaking spigots
Disconnect hoses, shut off outdoor water lines, and install frost-proof spigots.
How Liberty Plumbing Can Help This Winter
Winter plumbing issues can escalate quickly if left unaddressed. Liberty Plumbing offers professional inspections, emergency repairs, pipe insulation, water heater service, and winterization solutions to protect your home all season long.
FAQs About Winter Plumbing Problems
Why do pipes sometime freeze in winter?
Pipes freeze when temperatures drop below 32°F, especially if they’re poorly insulated or exposed to cold air.
What should I do if I suspect a frozen pipe?
Turn off your water supply immediately and call a professional plumber to safely thaw and inspect the pipe.
Is dripping faucets really effective?
Yes. Even a small drip keeps water moving, which helps prevent freezing during extreme cold.
Can cold weather damage my water heater?
Yes. Cold inlet water forces the heater to work harder, which can expose existing issues or reduce efficiency.
When should I call a plumber in winter?
At the first sign of frozen pipes, leaks, low water pressure, or unusual noises—early intervention can prevent costly damage.
Schedule Your Plumbing Maintenance with Liberty Plumbing Today
Do not let freezing weather interfere with your daily routine. Routine plumbing maintenance in Chantilly, Fairfax and across Northern Virginia, with Liberty Plumbing is a smart investment towards the longevity of your plumbing system and your peace of mind! Reach out to Liberty Plumbing for reliable plumbing services throughout Northern Virginia.
At Liberty Plumbing, we have proudly served Northern Virginia for two decades. If you’re experiencing plumbing problems—or want to prevent them—our experienced team is ready to help keep your system running smoothly. Contact us today!