Preparing Maryland’s Commercial Properties for Winter Plumbing Challenges
Winter in Maryland comes with its fair share of challenges, especially for commercial property owners. Freezing temperatures can put strain on plumbing systems, causing issues like frozen pipes, heating system malfunctions, and sewer backups. For business owners, these problems aren’t just inconvenient—they can disrupt operations and lead to costly repairs.
With a little preparation, many of these winter plumbing challenges can be avoided. Here’s a guide to getting your property ready for the season, along with how Linthicum Plumbing can provide professional support to ensure your systems stay efficient and reliable all winter long.
1. Insulate Pipes Against Freezing Temperatures
Frozen pipes are one of the most common and damaging winter plumbing problems. When water inside the pipes freezes, it expands, potentially causing the pipes to burst. For commercial properties with extensive plumbing systems, a single burst pipe can result in significant water damage and business interruptions.
What to Do:
Insulate exposed pipes in unheated areas, such as basements, utility rooms, and outdoor walls. Foam pipe insulation is an affordable and effective solution.
Keep interior temperatures consistent. Even during off-hours or holiday closures, maintain a temperature of at least 55°F to prevent freezing.
Seal cracks or gaps in walls and windows near pipes to keep cold air out.
For large or complex properties, Linthicum Plumbing can conduct a professional inspection and recommend targeted insulating solutions to safeguard your pipes.
2. Inspect and Service Your Water Heater
Winter increases the demand on water heaters as businesses rely on hot water for restrooms, break rooms, and facility maintenance. A poorly functioning water heater can lead to inconsistent performance—or worse, a complete breakdown during peak usage.
What to Do:
Flush the water heater to remove sediment and buildup that can reduce efficiency.
Test the temperature and pressure relief valve to ensure it’s functioning correctly.
Check for signs of wear, such as rust or leaks, which may indicate it’s time for a repair or replacement.
If your water heater is nearing the end of its lifespan or struggling to meet demand, Linthicum Plumbing can install an energy-efficient replacement to keep your operations running smoothly.
3. Prevent Sewer Backups
During winter, rain, melting snow, and holiday activity can create a perfect storm for sewer backups. A clogged sewer line can disrupt business operations and lead to unpleasant odors and unsanitary conditions.
What to Do:
Schedule a professional drain and sewer line cleaning to clear blockages and buildup before winter weather hits.
Install a backwater valve to prevent sewage from flowing back into your building during heavy storms or municipal sewer surges.
Avoid flushing non-flushable items, such as paper towels or hygiene products, which can contribute to clogs.
Linthicum Plumbing offers comprehensive drain and sewer services to protect your property against backups during the winter season.
4. Check and Maintain Heating Systems
For businesses with boiler or hydronic heating systems, ensuring peak performance is essential. Leaking or malfunctioning heating systems can impact both comfort and energy efficiency during the coldest months.
What to Do:
Inspect heating system pipes for leaks or corrosion.
Bleed radiators and check for proper flow to ensure even heating across your facility.
Have your boiler inspected and serviced ahead of time to catch any potential issues.
Our team can handle heating system inspections and repairs, ensuring that your business stays warm and comfortable all winter long.
5. Inspect Outdoor Plumbing Features
While much of your commercial plumbing system is located indoors, outdoor features like irrigation systems and outdoor faucets also require attention to prevent winter damage.
What to Do:
Drain and shut off irrigation systems and outdoor spigots to prevent freezing.
Disconnect and store hoses in a dry place. Leaving them attached can cause water to freeze in the hose and faucet.
Inspect storm drains and gutters to ensure they’re clear of debris and able to handle winter precipitation.
Linthicum Plumbing can assist with winterizing outdoor plumbing to prevent damage and ensure your property is ready for spring.
6. Schedule a Comprehensive Plumbing Inspection
A professional plumbing inspection is the best way to identify hidden vulnerabilities in your system before they become costly emergencies. Linthicum Plumbing’s experienced technicians can evaluate every aspect of your plumbing, from pipes and fixtures to sewer lines and heating systems.
Inspection Benefits:
Detect leaks, cracks, or weak spots in pipes.
Identify clogs or sediment buildup in drains.
Evaluate water heaters and heating systems for efficiency.
Provide tailored recommendations for winter preparations.
Why Choose Linthicum Plumbing for Winter Prep?
For over 25 years, Maryland businesses have trusted Linthicum Plumbing for reliable commercial services. We understand the unique challenges of maintaining commercial plumbing systems and provide customized solutions to meet your property’s needs.
Our Services Include:
Pipe insulation and repair
Water heater maintenance and installation
Sewer and drain cleaning
Heating system inspection and repair
Emergency plumbing services
Our team works efficiently and professionally, ensuring minimal disruption to your operations while delivering top-quality results.
Stay Ahead of Winter Plumbing Challenges
Don’t wait for cold weather to expose vulnerabilities in your plumbing system. By taking proactive steps now, you can protect your commercial property from winter-related issues and enjoy peace of mind throughout the season.
Schedule Your Winter Plumbing Inspection Today!
Call Linthicum Plumbing at (410) 768-5350 to book your consultation or maintenance appointment. From insulation to water heater servicing, we’ll help your business stay warm, dry, and problem-free this winter.
