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Winter’s chill brings more than frosty mornings and cozy evenings. It can also bring unwelcome surprises, like low water pressure in your home. Whether you’re struggling to get a steady stream in the shower or waiting an eternity to fill the sink, the seasonal drop in pressure can quickly disrupt your daily routine. The culprit often lies in the combination of freezing temperatures and your home’s plumbing system working overtime. But don’t worry. Understanding why this happens and how to fix it can save you a lot of headaches.
MVP Air Conditioning, Heating, Plumbing & Electric in Lenexa, KS, can help you resolve water pressure issues quickly and efficiently, ensuring your plumbing system works flawlessly even during the harshest winter months. Read on to learn more about water pressure issues and what you can do about them.
Causes of Winter Low Water Pressure
When the temperature drops, the plumbing in your home has to deal with new problems. One of the most typical winter difficulties that homeowners face is low water pressure. Simple things, like taking a shower or washing the dishes, can feel like work because of this annoying problem. But why does it happen? Most of the time, the cold itself is to blame. When temperatures drop below freezing, pipes can partly freeze, which stops water from getting to your taps and outlets. Ice growth can have a profound impact on your water flow, even if your pipes don’t freeze all the way through.
Another factor is the increased demand for municipal water supplies during winter. When everyone in the neighborhood is cranking up the heat and using more water for showers or hot beverages, you might notice a dip in pressure. Aging pipes in older homes can also worsen the issue, as these pipes may already have corrosion or sediment buildup that restricts water flow. Combining these factors creates a perfect storm for water pressure problems, especially when the thermometer plummets.
Low Water Pressure Signs
Before tackling the issue, it’s essential to confirm that you’re experiencing low water pressure. In certain circumstances, a temporary drop in flow might simply be due to increased demand at specific times of the day. However, very low water pressure tends to remain and may harm a variety of fittings in your house.
One telltale sign is a noticeable drop in water flow from faucets or showerheads. If you find yourself waiting longer than usual to fill a sink or tub, low water pressure could be the issue. Appliances, like washing machines and dishwashers, may also take longer to complete their cycles. In extreme circumstances, you may hear unusual noises coming from your pipes, such as whistling or banging, which might suggest an underlying plumbing issue is causing the pressure reduction.
To confirm the issue, consider using a water pressure gauge. This inexpensive tool attaches to an outdoor spigot and provides a reading of your home’s water pressure. Ideally, the pressure should range between 40 and 60 PSI. Anything significantly lower could indicate a problem worth addressing.
Preventing Frozen Pipes
Frozen pipes are one of the leading causes of low water pressure in winter. When water inside your pipes freezes, it expands, creating blockages that restrict flow. In extreme cases, this expansion can cause pipes to burst, leading to costly repairs. To prevent this, it’s essential to insulate exposed pipes in areas prone to freezing, such as basements, crawl spaces and exterior walls. Pipe insulation is an affordable and effective solution that can be installed as a DIY project or with the help of a professional.
Keeping your home’s temperature consistent is another crucial strategy. Even if you’re away, maintaining a thermostat setting of at least 55 degrees Fahrenheit can help prevent freezing. Letting faucets drip during extreme cold can also keep water moving through the pipes, reducing the risk of ice formation. While it might feel counterintuitive to waste water, the slight increase in usage is far less expensive than repairing burst pipes or dealing with prolonged low water pressure.
Aging Plumbing and Sediment Buildup
Low water pressure isn’t always caused by freezing temperatures. In some cases, it’s the result of years of sediment buildup or corrosion inside your pipes. This is particularly common in older homes with galvanized steel pipes, which are prone to rusting over time. As the internal diameter of the pipes shrinks, water flow is restricted and pressure drops.
If sediment buildup is the issue, flushing your water heater can make a significant difference. Minerals and debris may build up in the tank over time, lowering its efficiency and providing less water pressure. Draining the tank and removing the accumulation may help restore normal flow. If the issue continues, try repiping some areas of your house. Modern materials, like PEX or copper, provide greater endurance and are less prone to the problems that afflict older systems.
Municipal Water Supply Issues
Sometimes, the source of your low water pressure isn’t inside your home at all. Municipal water supply systems can experience seasonal fluctuations that impact individual households. During winter, higher demand for water or maintenance work on public systems can lead to temporary drops in pressure.
If you think this is the case, contacting your local water supplier is a good first step. They may notify you of any current concerns or scheduled maintenance in your region. If the issue persists and is unrelated to temporary work, installing a pressure-boosting pump may be the answer. These devices increase water pressure as it enters your home, ensuring consistent flow regardless of external factors.
Outdoor Hose Bibs and Fixtures
Outdoor hose bibs and fixtures are often overlooked when it concerns low water pressure in winter, but they can significantly impact your plumbing system. During freezing weather, water left in outdoor spigots or attached hoses can freeze and expand, causing blockages or even ruptures. These issues can create pressure imbalances that affect the entire system in your home.
To prevent this, ensure all outdoor hoses are disconnected and drained before the first frost. Many homes have shut-off valves specifically for outdoor spigots, allowing you to cut off water supply and minimize freezing risks. If your fixtures are not frost-proof, consider upgrading to models designed for cold climates.
Leaky outdoor faucets can also contribute to pressure loss. A steady drip might seem minor, but it reduces the water available to your indoor fixtures. Checking and repairing any outdoor leaks before winter sets in can keep your water pressure consistent throughout the season.
Regular Maintenance to Restore Pressure
One of the best ways to prevent and address water pressure problems in winter is through regular plumbing maintenance. Annual inspections can identify potential issues, such as leaks or partially blocked pipes before they become significant problems. Addressing small leaks early is especially important, as even minor water loss can compound pressure issues.
Maintaining fixtures is equally essential. Aerators on faucets and showerheads can become clogged with mineral deposits over time, reducing flow. Cleaning or replacing these components is a simple way to improve water pressure. For more complex systems, such as those involving water softeners or filtration systems, professional servicing can ensure everything operates smoothly and efficiently.
When to Bring in a Professional
While there are many steps you can take to address low water pressure on your own, some issues require the expertise of a professional plumber. If you’re dealing with persistent low pressure despite your best efforts, it’s time to call in the experts. Professionals have the tools and experience to diagnose the root cause, whether it’s a hidden leak, a problem with your water main, or something else entirely. A licensed plumber can also help winter-proof your plumbing system by identifying vulnerable areas and making recommendations for insulation or other preventive measures.
Contact Us Today
Dealing with low water pressure during winter doesn’t have to leave you feeling frustrated. By understanding the common causes, such as frozen pipes or increased demand on your plumbing system when using faucets and sinks, you can take proactive steps to address the issue. From simple maintenance to seeking professional assistance, restoring proper water flow is well within reach. Don’t let winter plumbing problems disrupt your daily routine. Contact MVP Air Conditioning, Heating, Plumbing & Electric today. We also offer HVAC installation, HVAC repair, HVAC maintenance, electrical work, attic fans, electrical panels, circuit breakers, generators, EV charging and lighting services.
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