At J Griffin Heating and Plumbing, we understand the importance of protecting your home’s plumbing during times of heavy snow. If you are wondering what you can do to keep your home’s plumbing protected during heavy snow, it helps to understand how snow can affect it in the first place.
Plumbing Vents
It’s important to keep your plumbing vents and roof free of snow during the winter season in Massachusetts. With snow accumulation, there are some less-visible issues that can arise.
Plumbing vents allow air pressure to escape from the plumbing system. If these vents get clogged with snow or ice, it can cause potentially harmful gases to be trapped inside your home. Signs of a blockage include slow draining bathtubs and sinks, gurgling in your toilet and low water pressure.
Gutters and Drains:
Your gutters, downspouts, and drains are all subject to damage during heavy snow. They can break from too much weight, crack from freeze-thaw cycles, or clog from organic debris and ice. It is important to keep up with snowfall as it’s happening by clearing these areas of dirt, trash, solid matter, and ice. This will reduce clogs, as well as, prevent water damage to roofing, siding, and the foundation.
Foundation:
Once the snow begins to melt, your home’s foundation can be affected by the increase in standing water. The excessive amounts of water will seep into the soil around the home’s foundation. If your foundation is not in the best condition, water can seep inside, into the basement or lower floors of the home. You must have your home’s foundation repaired or enhanced to prevent slab leaks.
Sump Pump:
Large snow buildup around your home may also affect the operation of your sump pump. Be sure to inspect the sump pump check valve after a heavy snowfall to ensure that it is properly fitted. If you notice that the pump is running too frequently, it could be an indication of a bad check valve. It is important to have a bad check valve replaced because it prevents pumped water from returning back into the line.
Plumbing Pipes:
When a home gets too cold during snowfall, plumbing pipes can freeze, which can result in damaging freeze-thaw cycles, and eventually, busted pipes. Not only is this an invasive plumbing repair, it is a tedious and costly one as well. You can prevent this from happening by keeping your house warm enough during the winter.
At J Griffin Heating and Plumbing, we offer prompt and professional plumbing repair services at an affordable price. Our experienced plumbers are ready to answer any questions you have about plumbing repair, replacement, installation, and maintenance. We are dedicated to providing our customers with free advice and estimates. Contact us today at 781-520-1212 for all your plumbing needs in North Reading and the surrounding areas.
