During freezing-cold temperatures, homeowners often face plumbing issues, such as low water pressure. If you notice reduced water pressure when using your faucet in winter, it may be due to frozen pipes. Frontdoor virtual plumbing expert Eddie Linares shared insights with Onions Australia on the pipes likely causing this problem and solutions to address it. Pipes located in exterior walls, basements, attics, sinks, crawlspaces, and drafty or unheated areas are more susceptible to freezing, leading to low water pressure. Linares suggests heating the pipes to restore normal water flow.
Copper pipes, in particular, are more prone to freezing. Linares noted, “Copper and plastic pipes (PVC, PEX) can freeze. Copper freezes faster as it conducts heat well and loses it quickly to the environment, whereas plastic pipes may block water without bursting as easily.”
To address frozen pipes, start by locating them. Linares advised, “Check unheated areas for frost or cold spots on the pipes. Also, listen for unusual noises, as frozen pipes can cause air in the water lines.” Once identified, follow these steps to thaw the ice.
How to Fix Frozen Pipes That Cause Low Water Pressure
In an exclusive discussion with Onions Australia, Eddie Linares provided tips for restoring water pressure after frozen pipes cause a slowdown. He explained, “Once you identify a frozen pipe, try defrosting it using a space heater or hair dryer to thaw the frozen section.” For plastic pipes, caution is necessary to avoid melting them, as extreme heat can cause damage.
Linares suggested an alternative: “Heating tape, a flexible electrical cable wrapped around water pipes, can prevent freezing. There are specific tapes for copper and plastic pipes, with the plastic version being temperature-regulated to avoid damage.” If you’re concerned about melting plastic pipes, this option may be preferable. Linares also warned that if locating the frozen pipe proves difficult, it’s advisable to seek professional help. “Frozen pipes can quickly become burst pipes, leading to costly repairs,” he cautioned.
