plumbing issues in colorado in winter

6 Common Winter Heater and Plumbing Issues in Colorado and How to Prevent Them

Winter in Colorado can bring unpredictable weather, with snowstorms, freezing temperatures, and frigid winds. These conditions can cause a variety of plumbing issues and heater problems that disrupt the comfort and safety of your home or business. At Blue Valley Heating, Cooling & Plumbing, we know how important it is to stay ahead of these potential problems. Our Maintenance Membership Plan includes safety checkups, carbon monoxide detection, plumbing leak detection, venting system inspections, and more, so you can rest easy knowing your systems are ready to handle the winter months.

Here are six common winter plumbing issues and heater problems you may face, along with tips on how to prevent them.

1. Frozen Pipes

One of the most common plumbing issues in winter is frozen pipes. As temperatures drop, water inside pipes can freeze, causing them to expand and potentially burst. This leads to significant water damage and costly repairs.

Prevention Tips:

  • Insulate exposed pipes in unheated areas like basements, attics, and crawlspaces.
  • Leave faucets dripping during extremely cold temperatures to keep water moving.
  • Open cabinet doors under sinks to allow warmer air to circulate around pipes.

Blue Valleyโ€™s Maintenance Membership Plan includes leak detection services, which can identify potential weak points in your plumbing system before they become major issues. Our expert technicians will ensure your pipes are safe and ready for the colder months.

2. Water Heater Malfunctions

With increased demand for hot water during the winter, water heaters often experience more strain, which can lead to inefficient operation or even breakdowns. Plumbing issues related to water heaters can range from not producing enough hot water to inconsistent temperatures or strange noises.

Prevention Tips:

  • Schedule an annual inspection to check for sediment buildup and ensure proper functionality.
  • Flush your water heater regularly to prevent mineral deposits that can reduce efficiency.
  • Consider upgrading to an energy-efficient model if your current water heater is older than 10 years.

Our team at Blue Valley will ensure your water heater is functioning efficiently through regular inspections, helping you avoid inconvenient malfunctions when you need hot water the most.

3. Furnace Malfunctions and Safety Risks

Heater problems are another concern during Colorado winters. Common heater problems include dirty filters, ignition failures, and issues with the pilot light or thermostat. A malfunctioning furnace not only leads to discomfort but also poses serious safety risks, including carbon monoxide buildup.

Prevention Tips:

  • Change your furnace filter regularly to ensure optimal airflow.
  • Schedule annual furnace maintenance and furnace cleaning services to inspect the ignition system, thermostat, and overall operation.
  • Ensure proper ventilation for your furnace to avoid the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.

Blue Valleyโ€™s Maintenance Membership Plan includes carbon monoxide detection services, ensuring that your heating system is safe and running efficiently. We will also inspect your entire system to prevent hazardous breakdowns and keep your home comfortable all winter long.

plumbing issues & heater problems

4. Leaking Faucets and Pipes

Winterโ€™s cold can cause pipes to contract and expand, leading to leaks in faucets, pipes, and fittings. Even a small leak can waste gallons of water and lead to higher utility bills, not to mention the potential for water damage to your home.

Prevention Tips:

  • Inspect pipes for visible signs of wear or damage.
  • Ensure your faucets are tightly sealed and check for drips.
  • Consider replacing old pipes with more durable, freeze-resistant materials if necessary.

As part of our Maintenance Membership Plan, Blue Valley provides leak detection services to catch issues early and prevent costly repairs. We can identify and fix any leaks before they cause major damage, helping you save both water and money.

5. Venting and Safety Shut-Off Issues

Proper venting is essential for any heating system, including furnaces and water heaters. Poor venting can lead to dangerous backdrafts, which pull carbon monoxide into your home, posing a serious health risk. In addition, malfunctioning safety shut-offs in plumbing systems can lead to flooding and water damage.

Prevention Tips:

  • Ensure your furnace and water heater vents are clear of obstructions.
  • Have your venting systems inspected regularly to ensure they are working properly.
  • Check for any faulty shut-off valves in plumbing systems and replace them as needed.

Blue Valleyโ€™s safety checkups include venting inspections and checks for faulty safety shut-offs. Our technicians will ensure your homeโ€™s heating system and plumbing are safe and functioning as they should.

6. How Blue Valleyโ€™s Maintenance Membership Plan Helps Prevent Heater and Plumbing Problems

The best way to avoid winter plumbing issues and heater problems is through proactive maintenance. Blue Valleyโ€™s Maintenance Membership Plan provides regular checkups and inspections for both HVAC and plumbing systems, ensuring your equipment stays in peak condition throughout the year.

Our plan includes:

  • Regular HVAC and plumbing inspections.
  • Carbon monoxide detection.
  • Plumbing leak detection and safety shut-off checks.
  • Home venting system inspections.
  • Priority service for emergency repairs.

By enrolling in our plan, youโ€™ll have peace of mind knowing that youโ€™re taking steps to prevent common winter problems, saving money on costly repairs and ensuring your home stays comfortable and safe all season.


Winter in Colorado can present several challenges when it comes to your plumbing and heating systems. By staying proactive and addressing plumbing issues and heater problems before they escalate, you can protect your home and family from costly repairs and unexpected emergencies.

Contact Blue Valley Heating, Cooling & Plumbing today to learn more about our Maintenance Membership Plan and how it can help you avoid winter woes. With our expert inspections and priority service, you can enjoy a warm, safe, and stress-free winter.

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