On the first leak of Christmas, my plumber found for me… a frozen pipe beneath the sink, actually. Winter might bring cozy fires and peppermint everything, but it also brings a long list of plumbing problems just waiting to ruin the holiday cheer. From frozen pipes to sneaky leaks, your plumbing system is under more stress this time of year—extra guests, colder temps, and a whole lot more water use. So in the spirit of the season, here are The 12 Leaks of Christmas: common winter plumbing issues to watch out for (and when to call a pro before it gets worse).
1. Frozen Pipes
Colder temps can cause water to freeze in pipes, especially those in unheated spaces like attics, basements, or behind poorly insulated walls. Frozen water expands—and that can lead to cracks, bursts, and big messes.
2. Burst Pipes
Once a frozen pipe thaws, it doesn’t always go quietly. If the pipe cracked while frozen, you might not notice until water comes pouring out. Pro tip: Know where your main water shut-off valve is—just in case.
3. Clogged Shower Drains
More people at home for the holidays? More hair, soap, and gunk heading down the drain. Don’t wait until water’s pooling at your feet—get ahead of clogs with regular cleanings or a quick professional flush.
4. Backed-Up Toilets
Holiday parties, kids home from school, and second helpings at dinner can mean your toilets are working overtime. If one starts bubbling, draining slowly, or making strange noises, don’t ignore it—something deeper might be going on.
5. Water Heater Issues
When it’s cold out, your water heater has to work harder to keep up—and if it’s an older unit, that can lead to lukewarm water (or none at all). Flushing the tank and checking for sediment buildup can help.
6. Garbage Disposal Problems
Cooking for a crowd? Keep bones, grease, stringy veggies, and coffee grounds OUT of the disposal. One wrong move and you’ll be elbow-deep in leftovers and regrets.
7. Outdoor Faucet Leaks
Didn’t disconnect your garden hose before the first freeze? You’re not alone—and your outdoor spigot might be cracked or leaking now. Check it regularly to avoid water damage that creeps inside.
8. Leaky Washing Machine Hoses
Winter laundry piles up fast—sheets, towels, guest bedding. If your washing machine is running around the clock, those hoses are under pressure. Old, cracked hoses are one of the most common sources of home water damage.
9. Dripping Faucets
A tiny drip might not seem like a big deal—but it adds up. Plus, a dripping faucet in winter could be a sign that a pipe is starting to freeze. Don’t ignore the signs.
10. Poorly Insulated Pipes
Pipes in crawlspaces, garages, or under kitchen sinks are extra vulnerable to freezing. Insulating them (or letting a faucet drip on cold nights) can help keep water moving and prevent disaster.
11. Slow Drains
Kitchen, bathroom, laundry room—if your drains are sluggish, there could be a buildup of grease, hair, or debris. Left alone, that turns into full clogs. A quick professional cleanout now beats an emergency call later.
12. Sewer Line Trouble
Freezing ground, tree roots, and heavy holiday use can all stress your sewer line. If you’re smelling something funky or multiple drains are backing up at once, it’s time to call a plumber—fast.
Contact Roman Home Services if You Experience Any Leaks or Plumbing Problems in Your Southeastern Wisconsin Home
Don’t let plumbing problems steal your holiday cheer. The holidays should be about hot cocoa, not cold showers. If you spot any of these signs, don’t wait—a quick repair now can save you from a major headache (and cleanup) later. Need help from a pro this season? Give us a call—we’ll take care of the leaks so you can get back to the cookies.
