Winter weather can be tough on drains, pipes, and plumbing. But by taking a few key steps to winter-proof your drains you can prevent costly repairs and reduce damage. But what type of damage can drains suffer in the winter?
Frozen Pipes
When temperatures drop, especially suddenly, any water left in exposed pipes can freeze. Since water expands as it freezes, this can lead to cracks, bursts, and leaks in your pipes. Repairing burst pipes can be expensive, not to mention the inconvenience. The water damage, if the water escape is inside, can be extensive too.
Increased Blockages
In the UK winter includes the holiday season, which usually means more cooking, baking, get-togethers and parties. All that extra food waste can quickly clog your kitchen drains. In the cold, fats, oils, and other organic waste builds up faster during the winter months, often leading to more frequent blockages.
Blockages can also come in the form of leaves. In the winter, trees shed their leaves to conserve energy. Those fallen leaves will quickly cover a drain and once you add bathroom waste such as soap products into the mix, your drain can easily become completely blocked.
Soil Shifting and Tree Roots
Cold weather causes soil around your home to contract, and this shift can stress buried pipes, leading to cracks. As the ground shifts, tree roots may also reach toward any available water source, which could mean roots invading your drain pipes causing damage, flooding or even complete blockages.
Simple Ways to Protect Your Drains and Plumbing
Taking preventive steps now can go a long way in keeping your drains safe and functional this winter.
· Insulate Exposed Pipes – for any pipes in unheated areas—such as loft spaces, basements, and crawl spaces—insulating them with foam pipe covers is a must. The covers provide a barrier against the cold and help keep pipes from freezing. It’s a simple fix that can prevent you from having to call out an engineer who deals with emergency drain services.
· Clean Out Drains Before Winter – before winter arrives in full force, clear any existing clogs or slow drains in your home. Taking care of this now reduces the chance of a clog turning into a major issue when it’s freezing outside.
· Seal Cracks and Gaps – pipes that enter your home through walls or foundations can let in cold drafts if there are gaps around them. Use caulking or weatherstripping to seal off these entry points and protect your inside pipes from the cold.
· Use Drain Covers – holiday gatherings often lead to increased bathroom and kitchen use. Using drain covers in sinks and showers can keep hair, soap, food scraps, and other debris from entering the drain and creating clogs. A cover is easy to remove and clean too.
Long-Term Tips to Keep Drains Winter-Ready
While these tips are particularly helpful in winter, practising good drain care throughout the year keeps your home in the best condition.
Schedule Regular Inspections
Professional drain inspections help you catch problems like small leaks, clogs, and root intrusions before they escalate. Annual check-ups are especially useful before winter to make sure your drains are in great shape for colder weather and reduce the chances of needing drain repairs later on.
Avoid Overusing Chemical Cleaners
Harsh chemical cleaners can wear down pipes over time, making them more vulnerable to winter damage. Where possible opt for natural drain cleaners (like baking soda and vinegar) for minor clogs and use professional solutions for stubborn issues.
Consider a Root Barrier
If tree roots frequently invade your pipes, a root barrier around your sewer or drainage lines. This can keep roots from causing damage in the winter—and year-round.
Emergency Winter Drain Issues
Sometimes, even with the best preparation, issues pop up. Here’s what to do if winter drain problems hit.
Frozen Pipes
If you notice a frozen pipe, start by turning off the water supply to prevent pressure buildup. Use a space heater, hair dryer, or warm towels to carefully warm the frozen pipe section. Avoid open flames, and if you can’t resolve the issue, call a plumber.
Drain Clogs
For small clogs, avoid harsh chemicals. A plunger can often do the trick, and a mixture of baking soda and vinegar works for dissolving light blockages. Pour boiling water down the drain after the vinegar and baking soda fizz for extra power.
If the clog won’t go or is persistent, you’ll need to get in touch with a plumber.
Final Thoughts
Winter-proofing your drains is a proactive way to protect your home from leaks, burst pipes, and clogs. You’ll help ensure your drains stay clear and working all winter long. If you want extra peace of mind, consider having a professional drain check-up to catch any hidden issues before they become emergencies.
