Surviving the Chill: Plumbing Tips for Winter in Toowoomba
- Mitch
- Aug 1
- 2 min read
August has kicked off with a very cold start — and even some rare snowfall across southern Queensland and northern New South Wales! It’s not something we see every year, but it’s certainly been a talking point across the Downs. While the sight of snow is exciting, the freezing conditions can be tough on your plumbing systems.
At Hanlon Plumbing & Gas, we’ve been busy helping local families, farms, and businesses keep their systems running smoothly through the winter freeze. Here are some insights and tips to help you stay comfortable and avoid plumbing headaches.
Why Cold Weather Causes Plumbing Problems
Even though Toowoomba doesn’t experience the same extreme winters as other parts of the world, cold snaps can still have a big impact:
Hot Water Systems Under Pressure Cold mornings mean longer, hotter showers — and your hot water system has to work harder. This extra demand can cause older or poorly maintained systems to fail.
Brittle Pipes Temperature changes can make ageing pipes more fragile, leading to cracks or leaks.
Gas Heater Safety Heaters are used more heavily in winter, so regular servicing is vital to ensure efficiency and safety.
Blocked Drains Winter rains can wash debris into drains, leading to slow flow or blockages if left unchecked.
How to Keep Your Hot Water
System Healthy
Nobody enjoys waking up to a cold shower — especially during frosty Toowoomba mornings. Here are some practical tips:
Schedule an Annual Service A plumber can check for worn parts, leaks, or sediment build-up that affects efficiency.
Check Water Temperature If your water isn’t as hot as it should be, or runs out too quickly, it may be a sign your system needs attention.
Listen for Noises Rumbling or banging noises often point to sediment build-up in the tank.
Know the Age of Your Unit Most hot water systems last 8–12 years. If yours is older, it may be time to consider replacement before it fails.
Looking Ahead: Preparing for Spring
While winter brings its own challenges, spring isn’t far away. In Toowoomba, the Carnival of Flowers is a highlight of the season — a time when family and visitors flock to the region. For many households and businesses, that also means extra demand on plumbing systems.
Now is the perfect time to:
Check toilets and taps for leaks before the extra usage.
Ensure drains and gutters are clear of winter debris.
Book in preventative maintenance if you’re expecting guests or higher customer traffic.
Community Matters
At Hanlon Plumbing & Gas, we’re proud to be part of the Toowoomba community. Whether it’s keeping homes comfortable, helping businesses avoid downtime, or getting involved in local events, we love supporting the region we live and work in.
If you’ve got something happening around the Downs that you’d like us to be part of, feel free to flick us a message — we’d love to hear from you.
Need a Hand with Your Plumbing?
If your hot water system is struggling, your drains are backing up, or you just want peace of mind heading into spring, we’re here to help.
📞 Call Mitch on 0408 026 719📧 admin@hanlonplumbingandgas.com.a
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