Winter Plumbing Services in Bend, OR & How to Prepare for Spring
Winter in Bend, Oregon, brings freezing temperatures that can wreak havoc on plumbing systems. From frozen pipes to water heater failures, homeowners and businesses often face plumbing emergencies during the colder months. As winter winds down, it’s essential to address these issues and prepare your plumbing for the warmer months ahead. Here’s what you need to know about the most common winter plumbing services and how to get ready for spring.
Common Winter Plumbing Issues & Services
1. Frozen Pipes & Pipe Bursts
One of the most frequent winter plumbing emergencies is frozen pipes. When temperatures drop, water inside pipes can freeze, causing expansion that may lead to bursting. A burst pipe can result in severe water damage and costly repairs.
Signs of Frozen Pipes:
No water flow from faucets
Strange noises in the pipes (banging or clanking)
Visible frost on exposed pipes
Solutions:
Thaw pipes safely using a hairdryer or warm towels (never use an open flame!)
Call Renew Plumbing for professional pipe thawing and repair
Insulate exposed pipes to prevent future freezing
2. Water Heater Failures
During winter, water heaters work overtime to provide hot water, leading to breakdowns or inefficiencies. A malfunctioning water heater can mean cold showers and potential leaks.
Signs of a Failing Water Heater:
Inconsistent water temperature
Strange noises (popping, rumbling)
Rust-colored water or visible leaks
Solutions:
Flush the tank to remove sediment buildup
Inspect the anode rod and heating elements
Upgrade to a more efficient water heater if yours is aging
Contact Renew Plumbing for repairs or new installations
3. Clogged Drains & Sewer Line Issues
Cold temperatures can contribute to slow drains and sewer backups, especially if grease and debris build up in pipes.
Signs of Clogs or Sewer Line Problems:
Slow-draining sinks or tubs
Gurgling noises from drains
Foul odors near plumbing fixtures
Solutions:
Avoid pouring grease down the drain
Use a drain screen to catch debris
Schedule a professional drain cleaning with Renew Plumbing
4. Leak Detection & Burst Hose Bibs
Outdoor faucets (hose bibs) and hidden leaks can cause problems in winter. If a hose bib wasn’t properly winterized, it might freeze and crack, leading to leaks in spring.
Solutions:
Inspect hose bibs for cracks or leaks
Schedule a professional leak detection service
Replace damaged outdoor faucets before spring
5. Sump Pump Failures
A properly functioning sump pump is crucial in winter and early spring to prevent basement flooding. Cold weather can lead to frozen discharge lines, causing pump failures.
Solutions:
Test your sump pump regularly
Clear the discharge line of debris and ice
Install a battery backup system for power outages
How to Prepare Your Plumbing for Spring
As winter ends, it’s time to transition your plumbing system to handle the thawing season and prepare for increased water usage in spring.
1. Inspect & Repair Any Winter Damage
Check all exposed pipes for cracks or leaks
Look for water stains on walls or ceilings, indicating hidden leaks
Inspect your water heater for signs of wear and schedule maintenance
2. Flush Your Water Heater
After heavy winter use, sediment buildup in your water heater can reduce efficiency. Flushing the tank removes debris and improves performance.
3. Check Outdoor Plumbing & Irrigation Systems
Turn on outdoor faucets and check for leaks
Inspect irrigation systems for broken sprinkler heads or cracked pipes
Schedule professional maintenance before regular watering resumes
4. Clear Drains & Sewer Lines
Winter debris can clog drains and lead to backups in spring. A professional drain cleaning service ensures everything flows smoothly.
5. Test Your Sump Pump & Drainage System
With melting snow and spring rain, sump pumps work harder. Testing the system now prevents basement flooding later.
Schedule Preventative Plumbing Maintenance with Renew Plumbing®
Spring is the perfect time to schedule preventative maintenance with Renew Plumbing in Bend, Oregon. Our experienced team can inspect, repair, and optimize your plumbing system to prevent costly issues down the road.
Why Choose Renew Plumbing?
✅ 30+ Years of Experience in Bend, OR
✅ Expert Water Heater Repair & Installation
✅ Professional Drain Cleaning & Leak Detection
✅ Reliable Emergency Plumbing Services
Get your home ready for spring—call Renew Plumbing today!
By addressing common winter plumbing issues and preparing your system for spring, you’ll save money, avoid em
