Common Winter Plumbing Problems and How to Prevent Them
By Schrader Plumbing
📞 817-262-0989 | 🌐 www.schraderplumbing.com
When temperatures drop in Texas, your plumbing system can take a serious hit. Even though our winters aren’t as harsh as up north, the sudden cold snaps we get can still cause major plumbing issues—especially if your pipes or fixtures aren’t prepared. At Schrader Plumbing, we’ve seen it all, and we want to help you protect your home before a winter plumbing disaster strikes.
Here are the most common winter plumbing problems we encounter—and how to prevent them.
1. Frozen Pipes
When water freezes inside your pipes, it expands—putting pressure on the pipe walls and potentially causing them to burst. This is one of the most costly and stressful plumbing emergencies homeowners face in winter.
Prevention Tips:
- Insulate exposed pipes in unheated areas like attics, garages, and crawl spaces.
- Let faucets drip slightly on freezing nights to keep water moving.
- Keep cabinet doors open under sinks to allow warm air to circulate around pipes.
- If you’ll be away, keep your home’s heat on at least 55°F.
2. Water Heater Problems
Your water heater works overtime during the colder months—and if it’s already struggling, winter is when it’s most likely to fail. Sediment buildup, worn components, or improper insulation can all cause issues.
Prevention Tips:
- Flush your water heater annually to remove sediment.
- Check the temperature setting—120°F is ideal for performance and efficiency.
- Insulate your water heater tank and the first few feet of connected pipes.
- If your unit is more than 10 years old, consider a professional inspection or replacement.
3. Outdoor Faucet and Hose Bib Damage
Outdoor faucets and attached hoses can freeze quickly, leading to cracked fittings and burst pipes inside your walls.
Prevention Tips:
- Disconnect and drain garden hoses before the first freeze.
- Install insulated faucet covers on outdoor spigots.
- For older homes, consider frost-free hose bibs for better protection.
4. Clogged Drains
Holiday cooking and entertaining can put extra strain on your kitchen plumbing. Grease, food scraps, and coffee grounds can quickly clog drains—especially when the weather cools and grease solidifies faster.
Prevention Tips:
- Never pour grease or oil down the drain.
- Use drain strainers to catch food particles.
- Run hot water and a bit of dish soap after using the sink to help keep lines clear.
- Schedule a professional drain cleaning before the busy season hits.
5. Sump Pump or Yard Drain Issues
Winter rains can lead to standing water and flooding if your drainage systems aren’t in top shape.
Prevention Tips:
- Clear debris from yard drains and gutters.
- Test your sump pump to make sure it activates properly.
- Keep discharge lines free of ice or obstructions.
Stay Ahead of Winter Plumbing Problems
At Schrader Plumbing, we believe prevention is the best cure. A quick inspection and tune-up before winter can save you thousands in repairs later. Our licensed professionals can help insulate pipes, service water heaters, and make sure your system is ready for the cold.
Don’t wait until you have a frozen pipe or cold shower—schedule your winter plumbing check-up today!
📞 Call Schrader Plumbing at 817-262-0989
🌐 Visit www.schraderplumbing.com
By: Michelle Kurcina
Last modified:
Last Modified: October 29, 2025 at 1:54 pm
