During the winter, your drain is subject to numerous issues. Some of these problems are caused by the cold weather that is present in the winter, while others are a threat throughout the year. Check out these common winter drain issues and learn how you can prevent them.
Clogged Garbage Disposal
While garbage disposals can get rid of certain foods, they can’t handle everything. Avoid putting coffee grounds, bones, pasta, and oily foods down your garbage disposal. While this should be obvious, don’t put non-food substances down your disposal. This includes paint, garbage, and cleaning materials.
Frozen Pipes
If your pipes are exposed to cold temperatures, the water inside can freeze. Not only can this cause your pipes to clog, but it can also lead to the pipes breaking. As water freezes, it expands. This increased volume can cause pipes to burst. Not only does this ruin your pipes, but it also floods your home and causes damage.
If you are leaving your home, do not turn the heat off. Make sure to keep the heat set at a temperature that will prevent the pipes from freezing. Even if you do keep your heat on, pipes in unheated spaces like basements and attics might still burst. A good preventative measure is to use pipe insulation around these pipes.
You can also keep a slow drip running from faucets that connect to exterior pipes. This slow flow of water will keep pipes from freezing.
Failed Water Heater
It’s no surprise that hot water use increases during the winter as we work to stay warm. Along with the increased hot water usage, water heaters also have to work harder in colder temperatures.
Combine these two factors and it’s common for water heaters to become overworking during the winter. Before winter arrives, make sure to have your water heater inspected. By replacing worn parts ahead of time, you won’t be left with a lack of hot water during a cold winter day.
Clogged Kitchen Sink Drain
There are two main reasons why kitchen sinks become clogged. The first is food scraps. To avoid solid food from making its way down your drain, make sure you use a drain strainer.
The second reason is pouring grease down the drain. When you cook meat or another greasy food, the fat will separate from the rest of the food. It’s easy to pour this liquid grease down the drain, but you shouldn’t do so. When this grease cools, it will solidify. Over time, this solid grease will build up and clog your drain.
Rather than pouring liquid grease down the drain, pour it into a cup or can. Once the grease cools and solidifies, you can throw it away.
Trust the Sewer & Drain Experts
For over 37 years Boston Drain Company has provided diagnostics, sewer & drain cleaning, video pipe inspections, sewer line repairs, and preventative maintenance options to business owners and residents of Eastern Massachusetts & the Greater Boston Area. For any and all sewer & drain repair/service, call the experts at Boston Drain! Not sure if you’re needing a full replacement or just a quick fix? For a free quote contact us today via our convenient contact form or call us directly at 617-265-8888!