Menu
About Us

Pro Blocked Drains is a 24 hour a day, 365 days a year, emergency drainage company providing services for blocked drains. We have a network of local drainage experts covering the UK who can help you with your drain blockage problem.

Contact Info
Telephone

03300 888987

Email

info@blockeddrains.com

Click to call us on 03300 888987

How Cold Weather Affects Your Drains (And What You Can Do About It)

Home — Blog — How Cold Weather Affects Your Drains (And What You Can Do About It)

Introduction

Winter can be harsh on your home or business’s drainage system, causing costly and inconvenient blockages. As temperatures drop, your pipes and drains are vulnerable to freezing, cracking, and clogging due to increased grease buildup, debris, and ice. Whether you have a domestic drainage system or a sewage treatment plant, understanding how cold weather affects your drains and knowing how to prevent these issues can save you from expensive repairs. In this guide, we explore the key ways cold weather impacts your drainage systems and practical steps to keep your system flowing smoothly.

Learn More

Freezing Pipes and Blocked Drains

One of the most common winter drainage problems is frozen pipes. When temperatures drop below freezing, standing water in your pipes can solidify, leading to blockages or even pipe bursts. Homes and businesses with older drainage systems, including sewage treatment plants, are particularly at risk.

Preventative Measures:

  • Insulate exposed pipes with foam sleeves to reduce the risk of freezing.
  • Keep a slow trickle of water running during extreme cold spells to prevent water from stagnating and freezing.
  • Regularly check your drainage system for any early signs of freezing, such as slow-draining water or unusual noises.
Get in Touch

Grease and Fat Build-up

Cold weather makes grease and fat solidify faster, which can cause serious blockages in your kitchen sink and drains. When cooking during winter, many people unknowingly contribute to drain blockages by disposing of fats, oils, and grease down the sink.

Preventative Measures:

  • Avoid pouring grease, oils, or fats down the drain. Instead, collect them in a container and dispose of them in the bin.
  • Use a grease trap or filter to catch fatty residues before they enter your drainage system.
  • Schedule regular drain cleaning services to prevent buildup in your pipes.

Tree Root Intrusion

Winter can lead to an increase in tree root intrusions, especially in older drainage systems. As the ground freezes, roots search for moisture, often infiltrating drainage pipes and causing severe blockages.

Preventative Measures:

  • Install root barriers near your drainage system to deter root growth.
  • Have your drainage system inspected by professionals using CCTV surveys to detect root intrusions early.
  • Consider upgrading to modern sewage treatment plant systems, such as those available in Dorset, to improve resilience against root intrusions.

Heavy Rainfall and Flooding

Winter storms can lead to excessive rainfall, which overwhelms drainage systems and causes water to back up. Poorly maintained drainage treatment plants may struggle to handle excess water, increasing the risk of flooding.

Preventative Measures:

  • Ensure your sewage treatment plant is properly maintained and serviced regularly.
  • Clean gutters and external drains to prevent leaves and debris from clogging the system.
  • Invest in a water treatment plant or upgrade your drainage system to improve water flow and prevent backups.

Essential Maintenance Tips for Winter Drain Care

Regular Drain Inspections

Hiring professional drainage experts to inspect your system before winter sets in can help prevent major issues. Regular inspections can detect potential problems such as minor cracks, blockages, or tree root growth before they escalate.

Sewage Treatment Plant Maintenance

If you rely on a sewage treatment plant in Dorset, winter maintenance is crucial. Cold weather can impact the efficiency of biological treatment processes, leading to poor drainage and foul odors. Work with STP service providers near you to ensure your system is functioning optimally.

Learn More

Conclusion

Cold weather can wreak havoc on your drainage system, leading to frozen pipes, grease buildup, root intrusions, and even flooding. By taking preventative measures such as insulating pipes, avoiding grease disposal, scheduling regular maintenance, and upgrading your drainage treatment plant, you can avoid costly repairs and keep your system running efficiently all winter long.

At Pro Blocked Drains, we offer expert drain unblocking, maintenance, and repair services tailored to your needs. Whether you’re dealing with a minor blockage or require sewage treatment plant maintenance in Dorset, our team is ready to help.

Don’t wait for winter to take its toll on your drains! Call us today for a professional inspection and maintenance service.

Get in Touch Today