Winter is that time of year when plumbing issues can arise. In addition to the regular household plumbing issues that arise from time to time, winter brings its own unique Northern MI plumbing problems.

Here are some to watch out for when the temperatures drop and the cold winds rage:

Problems with hot water

Our Northern MI plumbing specialists are often called to homes to remedy a hot water heater that isn’t working properly. Before you call for expert help, make sure the temperature setting on the tank is high enough. Sometimes children or even pets will knock into the dial and set it a bit too low, which is more noticeable in cold weather. If the hot water tank is heated by natural gas, ensure that the pilot light is lit. If you still don’t have hot water, it’s time to check and see if something has failed. Thus the cold weather may highlight an important issue with the performance of your hot water heating system. A trusted Northern MI plumbing company will help you decide whether to repair or replace the tank (sometimes it’s more economical to replace).

Frozen pipes

The first sign of trouble with your plumbing is often a change in water flow. Watch to see if the water seems restricted; and if you suspect a pipe might be frozen, let it drip or dribble until you have a Northern MI plumbing specialist take care of the situation. Remember that a slightly higher water bill is less expensive than having your water pipes burst! The icy temperatures can freeze household pipes, particularly if they’re poorly insulated, and make them less able to manage high pressure from the water main. Open cabinet doors and let warm air reach the affected pipes (often located on exterior walls). If a pipe starts to leak or even bursts, turn off the water to your home at the water main and call a plumbing professional immediately.

Garden Hose Lines Bursting

If homeowners don’t drain and disconnect garden hoses before winter, ice can form and cause a build-up of pressure, causing the pipes to leak or rupture. Either outcome can cause a lot of damage to a home. Installing insulated jackets for outdoor faucets, winterizing pipes, and knowing where to find shut-off valves will help homeowners guard against unwanted problems when the mercury dips.

Sump Pump Trouble?

Freezing temperatures can be problematic for homes with sump pumps, particularly if the discharge pipe is not properly graded. Snow and ice can block drainage areas, causing the water that should be draining to back up or freeze. If the sump pump lines freeze, they can burst or leak, whereas if the discharge pipe is frozen, it can burn out the sump pump motor.

Winterize Your Home and Summer Home

If you need help properly winterizing the pipes and plumbing in your home or summer home, contact the best Northern Michigan plumbing experts at Sheren Plumbing, Heating & Cooling.  We have been helping with repairs and installation in and around Traverse City and Petoskey for over 42 years. We serve the Traverse City, Cadillac, Kalkaska, Manistee, Frankfort, Suttons Bay, Petoskey, Mackinac Island, Harbor Springs, Gaylord, Grayling and surrounding northern Michigan region. Winter, Summer, Spring, or Fall. We are here for you 24 hours a day, seven days a week and every day of the year.

Emergency Plumbing Repair

Do you have a burst or busted pipe or need an emergency plumbing repair outside of our normal business hours? Call our number after hours for your emergency repair needs and we will get one of our expert and professional certified plumbers to you ASAP! While plumbing issues can be more prevalent during the winter season, Sheren Plumbing, Heating and Cooling is here for plumbing installation, maintenance and repair any time of the year. Don’t suffer from from DIY problems. Trust our team of certified plumbers to handle every plumbing project for your home.