Winter can be a magical time; with more chances to see your family and the first chilly day prompting you to stay inside under a warm blanket. But, with all of that, why do clogged pipes seem to happen more frequently this time of year? In this post, we break down reasons why clogs seem to occur more during the winter and steps you can take to prevent it from happening.
Why Do Clogs Happen More in The Winter Time?
Cooler weather in the winter can make cooking substances like oil, grease, and lard harden at room temperature and coat your pipes, leading to clogs. This process is accelerated in the winter, causing these greasy substances to solidify faster and increasing the likelihood of blockages in your plumbing.
Do Toilets Clog More in Winter?
Yes, toilets can clog more in winter. Colder temperatures can cause pipes to contract, which may slow down the flow of water and lead to blockages.
Additionally, more indoor activity during the colder months means toilets are used more frequently, which increases the chance of clogs. It’s important to make sure pipes are properly insulated to help prevent these issues.
How Can You Help Prevent Drain Clogs in The Winter Time?
To help prevent drain clogs in the winter, avoid pouring grease, oil, or food scraps down the drain, as these can harden in the cold and cause blockages. Use strainers in sinks to catch hair and debris, and run hot water regularly to keep things flowing smoothly.
It's also a good idea to have your pipes insulated to protect them from the cold and prevent them from contracting. Regularly cleaning your drains can help prevent clogs too.
Additional Factors That Cause Your Drains to Clog in The Winter
The beginning of the new year is always a game of playing catch up from holiday gatherings and celebrations. Plus, as winter continues, most of your gatherings will continue to be inside, giving you even more chances to play host. During these get-togethers, your home will see more use on your pipes, sinks, toilets, etc., increasing the possibility of a clog.
A great way to avoid clogs with more guests is to make sure your bathroom always has a wastebasket; this way, no unwanted items will make their way down your drain. Also, don’t forget to warn guests if your toilet can’t handle a lot of toilet paper all at once!
Increasing the number of baths or showers comes with more chances for things to go down the drain—items such as hair, soap scum, etc.
An easy way to fix this problem is by investing in a drain guard. A drain guard will help prevent unwanted items from entering your home’s pipes. This will help lead to less buildup and eventual stubborn clogs. Drain guards are also super easy to clean up; just remove them, empty them over your trashcan, and replace them back to your drain.
Are You Stuck With a Stubborn Clog?
For all of your drain clearing needs in Knoxville, contact Quality Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Electrical at (865) 622-7785! We pride ourselves on taking care of our customers.