Living in Thornton, Colorado means experiencing all four seasons—each bringing unique challenges for your home’s plumbing system. Whether it’s frozen pipes in the winter or clogged drains after summer storms, being prepared year-round is essential for avoiding costly repairs and water damage.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through practical, season-by-season plumbing tips every Thornton homeowner should know to keep water flowing smoothly and prevent unexpected issues.
🌨️ Winter: Protect Against Freezing Pipes
Thornton winters can be brutal, with temperatures often dipping well below freezing. That cold air can wreak havoc on exposed pipes, especially in basements, crawl spaces, and exterior walls.
Winter Plumbing Tips:
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Insulate Exposed Pipes:
Wrap pipes in unheated areas (like garages, attics, or basements) with foam pipe insulation to help prevent freezing. -
Keep a Trickle Running:
When temperatures drop below 20°F, allow a small stream of water to run from faucets connected to exposed pipes. Moving water is less likely to freeze. -
Open Cabinet Doors:
Open kitchen and bathroom cabinets to allow warm air to circulate around plumbing. -
Shut Off and Drain Outdoor Faucets:
Disconnect garden hoses and shut off the water supply to outdoor spigots. Drain any remaining water to prevent freezing and cracking. -
Know Your Main Shut-Off Valve Location:
If a pipe bursts, quick action is crucial. Make sure everyone in the household knows where the main valve is and how to turn it off.
🌷 Spring: Inspect and Prepare After the Thaw
Spring is a time of renewal—but it’s also when snowmelt and thawing ground can uncover plumbing issues that developed during the winter.
Spring Plumbing Tips:
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Check for Leaks:
Inspect all pipes, especially in basements and crawlspaces, for signs of leaks or corrosion. -
Clear Out Gutters and Downspouts:
Clogged gutters can cause water to pool near your home’s foundation and seep into your plumbing system. Clean them out to keep water flowing away properly. -
Inspect Sump Pumps:
If you have a sump pump, test it to make sure it’s working. Spring rain can lead to basement flooding without a properly functioning pump. -
Flush Your Water Heater:
Over time, sediment builds up in water heaters, reducing efficiency. Flushing it once a year in spring helps extend its life. -
Inspect Sewer Lines:
Spring thaw can shift soil and damage underground sewer lines. Look for signs like slow drains, gurgling sounds, or frequent backups.
☀️ Summer: Stay on Top of Heavy Use
With kids home from school, summer guests, and backyard activities, water usage often spikes in the summer. More use means more strain on your plumbing.
Summer Plumbing Tips:
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Watch for Clogged Toilets and Drains:
More use = more risk of clogs. Remind family and guests not to flush anything except toilet paper and to use drain strainers in showers and sinks. -
Water Smartly:
Watering the lawn too frequently or overusing sprinklers can cause pressure issues and waste water. Consider watering early in the morning or evening and inspect sprinklers for leaks. -
Inspect Outdoor Plumbing:
Check hose bibs and sprinkler systems for leaks, wear, or damage. A slow outdoor leak can drive up water bills. -
Conserve Water During Peak Hours:
Avoid running dishwashers and washing machines at the same time to reduce pressure drops or hot water issues. -
Get a Pre-Vacation Plumbing Check:
Leaving town? Have a plumber inspect your system or at least shut off the main valve before you go to avoid surprises.
🍂 Fall: Prep for Cold Weather Ahead
Fall in Thornton brings cooler temps and falling leaves, both of which can cause problems for your plumbing and drainage systems.
Fall Plumbing Tips:
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Clean Drains and Gutters:
Falling leaves can clog exterior drains and gutters, leading to backups and flooding. Make sure to keep them clear. -
Inspect the Water Heater:
Before winter hits, check your water heater’s temperature and function to ensure it's ready to handle the increased demand for hot water. -
Disconnect Hoses & Winterize Outdoor Faucets:
It’s easy to forget, but leaving hoses connected during a surprise freeze can cause pipes to burst. Drain and store hoses, and install frost-proof covers on spigots. -
Schedule a Drain Cleaning:
Now’s a great time to have a professional clean out your main drain lines and inspect for root intrusion or buildup before winter locks everything down. -
Seal Gaps and Cracks:
Cold air can enter through cracks near plumbing lines, increasing the chance of freezing. Seal gaps around pipes, especially on exterior walls.
Bonus Tip: Year-Round Plumbing Habits
While seasonal changes matter, good year-round habits make the biggest difference. Here are a few plumbing practices that every Thornton homeowner should follow:
- Avoid Pouring Grease Down Drains: It hardens and causes clogs.
- Use Drain Strainers: Catch hair, food, and debris before they enter your pipes.
- Know What Not to Flush: Wipes (even “flushable” ones), hygiene products, and paper towels should always go in the trash.
- Schedule Annual Plumbing Inspections: A routine check can catch small issues before they turn into emergencies.
When to Call Thornton Drain Service
No matter the season, Thornton Drain Service is here to help. We offer:
- Emergency plumbing services
- Seasonal drain inspections
- Sewer line cleaning and repair
- Water heater maintenance
- Sump pump installations
- Pipe insulation and winterization
Our team understands the challenges Thornton’s climate brings—and we’re local, so we know exactly how to prepare your home for it.
Final Thoughts
Each season in Thornton brings its own set of plumbing concerns, but with regular maintenance and a little preparation, you can keep your system running smoothly all year long. From frozen pipes in winter to clogged gutters in fall, being proactive saves you time, stress, and money.
Need help with seasonal plumbing maintenance? Contact Thornton Drain Service today and let us help you protect your home through every season.
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