The holidays are over, the temperatures have dropped, and winter is officially here. While we’re all bundled up and enjoying the cozy comforts of home, it’s easy to forget about the unsung heroes of our households: our plumbing systems. Winter can be especially harsh on drains and sewer lines, leading to clogs, backups, and a whole host of other messy (and expensive!) problems.
That’s why Edwards Royal Comfort, your local home comfort experts, is here to share some valuable tips to keep your plumbing flowing freely all season long. We treat every home like our own, and we’re committed to providing top-notch service that makes the whole experience easy and enjoyable for you.
Expert Tips for Keeping Your Drains and Sewer Lines Clear During Winter
Drains:
Winter can be tough on your drains. Colder temperatures can cause substances like grease and fats to solidify more quickly, making them more likely to cling to pipe walls and cause blockages. Here’s what you can do:
Watch What You Wash Down: This is crucial year-round, but especially in winter. Avoid pouring grease, fats, and oils down the drain. These substances solidify in colder temperatures and can create stubborn clogs. Instead, collect grease in a jar and dispose of it in the trash. Be mindful of what goes down the garbage disposal, too. While it can handle some food scraps, it’s not designed for large quantities or tough items like bones, coffee grounds, or fibrous vegetables.
Flush with Hot Water: Regularly flushing your drains with hot water can help prevent buildup. Hot water helps dissolve any grease or other substances that might be starting to accumulate. Do this at least once a week, especially after cooking greasy meals.
Use Strainers: Place strainers in your sinks and shower drains to catch hair, soap scum, and other debris before they can enter your pipes. Empty the strainers regularly to prevent them from becoming clogged themselves.
Avoid Chemical Drain Cleaners: While they might seem like a quick fix, chemical drain cleaners can actually do more harm than good. They can corrode your pipes and cause more serious problems down the line. For minor clogs, try using a plunger or a drain snake. For more stubborn clogs, it’s best to call a professional plumber.
Insulate Exposed Pipes: If you have any exposed pipes under sinks or in unheated areas like garages or crawl spaces, insulate them to prevent them from freezing. Frozen pipes can burst, leading to costly water damage.
Sewer Lines:
Your sewer line is responsible for carrying wastewater away from your home. Problems with this line can be particularly messy and expensive to fix. Here are some common issues and how to prevent them:
Tree Root Intrusion: Tree roots are attracted to the moisture in sewer lines. They can grow into cracks in the pipes, causing blockages and even breaks. Be mindful of where you plant trees, and consider having your sewer line inspected periodically, especially if you have mature trees near your home.
Blockages: Just like with your household drains, blockages in the sewer line can be caused by grease, fats, hair, and other debris. Avoid flushing anything other than toilet paper down the toilet. This includes “flushable” wipes, which can actually contribute to clogs.
Collapsed or Damaged Pipes: Sewer lines can collapse or become damaged due to age, ground shifting, or external factors like construction. Regular maintenance and inspections can help identify potential problems early on.
Bellied Sewer Lines: A bellied sewer line occurs when a section of the pipe sags, creating a low spot where waste can accumulate. This can lead to blockages and backups. Proper installation and maintenance can help prevent this issue.
Edwards Royal Comfort is Here to Help!
Preventing drain and sewer line problems is much easier (and cheaper!) than dealing with the aftermath. By following these tips and being mindful of what goes down your drains, you can keep your plumbing system flowing smoothly all winter long.
If you do encounter any drain or sewer line issues, don’t hesitate to call Edwards Royal Comfort. We’re here to provide reliable, honest, and efficient service. Our partnership with Bassett Services strengthens our ability to handle all your plumbing and electrical needs, including drain cleaning, sewer line repair, and even generator installation to keep your sump pump running during power outages.
Contact us today at 765-323-4433 or visit our website to schedule an appointment. We’re committed to keeping your home comfortable and your plumbing flowing freely, no matter the season!
