Winter may be milder in North Texas than in colder regions, but freezing temperatures still create real risks for your plumbing system. At Ernie’s Plumbing, we see the same winter-related plumbing issues year after year—many of which could have been avoided with a little preparation. Understanding these winter plumbing problems and solutions can help protect your home, prevent costly repairs, and keep everything running smoothly through the colder months.
Here are five of the most common winter plumbing problems we see in Arlington and the Dallas-Fort Worth area—and what you can do to avoid them.
1. Frozen Pipes
Frozen pipes are one of the most serious winter plumbing problems. When temperatures drop, water inside exposed pipes can freeze and expand, causing pipes to crack or burst. This often happens in garages, attics, crawl spaces, exterior walls, or outdoor plumbing.
How to avoid it:
Insulate exposed pipes with foam sleeves or pipe insulation before winter arrives. During especially cold nights, allow faucets to drip slightly to keep water moving. Keeping cabinet doors open under sinks can also help warm air circulate around pipes. If you’re unsure which pipes are most at risk, Ernie’s Plumbing can inspect your system and recommend targeted insulation.
2. Burst Pipes and Water Damage
When frozen pipes thaw, they often burst—releasing large amounts of water into your home. Burst pipes can cause significant water damage to walls, flooring, and personal belongings in a short amount of time.
How to avoid it:
Preventing frozen pipes is the first line of defense, but knowing where your main water shutoff valve is can minimize damage if a pipe does burst. If you plan to travel during winter, consider shutting off your water supply and draining the system. Scheduling a pre-winter plumbing inspection can also help catch weak or aging pipes before they fail.
3. Water Heater Failures
Your water heater works harder during winter as incoming water temperatures drop and household demand increases. Without maintenance, this extra strain can lead to inconsistent hot water, strange noises, leaks, or complete system failure.
How to avoid it:
Schedule professional water heater maintenance before or during winter. Flushing the tank removes sediment buildup that reduces efficiency and strains the system. A tune-up also ensures heating elements, thermostats, and safety valves are working properly. Regular maintenance can extend the life of your water heater and reduce the risk of a mid-winter breakdown.
4. Clogged Drains from Holiday Use
Winter brings holidays, guests, and heavier plumbing usage. Kitchens see more grease, food scraps, and leftovers, while bathrooms experience increased use. All of this can contribute to clogged drains and sewer backups.
How to avoid it:
Be mindful of what goes down your drains. Avoid pouring grease, gravy, or oils down the sink, and never flush wipes or paper products other than toilet paper. Installing drain strainers and scheduling professional drain cleaning before or during winter can help prevent clogs when your plumbing system is under extra pressure.
5. Sewer Line Issues
Cold temperatures, shifting soil, and increased water usage can expose existing problems in your sewer line. Tree roots, cracks, or partial blockages may worsen in winter, leading to slow drains or sewage backups.
How to avoid it:
Watch for warning signs like gurgling drains, foul odors, slow drainage throughout the home, or water backing up in multiple fixtures. If you notice any of these issues, don’t wait. A professional sewer inspection can identify problems early and help you avoid a messy and costly emergency.
Bonus Tip: Outdoor Plumbing Problems
Outdoor plumbing is often overlooked during winter. Garden hoses, exterior faucets, and sprinkler lines are especially vulnerable to freezing temperatures.
How to avoid it:
Disconnect and drain garden hoses, shut off water to outdoor faucets if possible, and cover hose bibs with insulated covers. These simple steps can prevent cracked pipes and leaks once temperatures rise again.
Why Winter Plumbing Prevention Matters
Many winter plumbing problems don’t show immediate signs until damage has already occurred. By taking preventive steps early, you reduce the risk of emergencies, water damage, and unexpected repair bills. Understanding common winter plumbing problems and solutions helps you stay proactive instead of reactive.
At Ernie’s Plumbing, we help homeowners throughout Arlington and the Dallas-Fort Worth area prepare their plumbing systems for winter with inspections, maintenance, and timely repairs. Whether it’s insulating pipes, servicing your water heater, or clearing drains, our team is here to help you stay protected all season long.
If you’d like help winterizing your plumbing or have concerns about cold-weather issues, contact Ernie’s Plumbing today. We’ll make sure your plumbing system is ready to handle whatever winter brings.
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