Thunder Bay winters aren’t to be taken lightly. It can get well below -20 degrees Celsius, and this is when your home’s plumbing is in trouble. Most people do not think about their home’s plumbing system unless there is a problem. Let’s see what exactly is a problem and what you can do to prevent it before it gets too out of hand so that you can contact the best Thunder Bay plumber..
Frozen Pipes
Water expands when it freezes in a pipe. This causes the pipe to burst and damages the walls, floors, and ceilings. This often occurs in pipes in unheated spaces like:
- Crawl spaces
- Garages
- Exterior walls
- Uninsulated basement areas
If you encounter a low level of water flow when you have a cold snap, then you probably have a frozen pipe somewhere in your house and you may have to call a Thunder Bay plumber to fix it.. A bursting pipe can release hundreds of litres of water in a matter of seconds.
Low Water Pressure
Having low water pressure is a warning sign. Many older homes in Thunder Bay often encounter mineral deposits in their water pipes. Thunder Bay water supply contains minerals which gradually accumulate in the water pipes and fixtures.
The failure of the pressure regulators is another potential cause. A common sign is the water pressure dropping abruptly. It is probably because the pressure regulator needs to be replaced.
Slow or Blocked Drains
Perhaps the most neglected problem. A slow drain is not really a priority until the water actually backs up into the sink. Soap scum, hair, grease, and other objects accumulate in the drain over time without much notice.
However, the real concern is when multiple drains start to clog simultaneously. This could be because there is something wrong with the sewer. Tree roots are known to cause this. They grow into the joints of the sewer pipes and can cause blockages.
Water Heater Failures
During the winter months, water heaters have to work much harder, especially in colder climates. This can shorten the lifespan of the water heater. If your heater is having trouble, check if:
- Water is not warming up as quickly
- Hot water running out much quicker
- Rumbling or popping sounds from the water heater.
- The water coming from the shower head has a rusty look
Sewer Line Problems
Damaged sewer lines can back up and send sewage into your home. The sewer line is mostly made of clay or cast iron in older houses. These materials deteriorate over time.
What to look for:
- Gurgling sounds coming from your drains
- Smell of sewage in your home
- Several slow drains occurring simultaneously
- Water collecting in your yard near your sewer line
You can use a camera inspection to determine the condition of the line without digging. You should do this if your house is over 30 years old. Sewer problems are far less intrusive if caught early.
Final Word
So if you notice any one of these plumbing issues in your home, make haste in contacting the best plumber in Thunder Bay, since the problem may worsen the more you delay fixing the issue and may cost you much more in damage.
Featured Image Source: https://media.istockphoto.com/id/1516511531/photo/a-plumber-carefully-fixes-a-leak-in-a-sink-using-a-wrench.jpg?b=1&s=612×612&w=0&k=20&c=NUX8oizSVtCWuC9VqFkjUc-EYq3c2Yypzqx-hcaMSKs=
