The Pressure’s On: How To Keep Water Flowing In Cold Weather


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Picture the following. You wake up in the morning and the house is icy cold. So, to take the edge off, you dive into the shower. But, when you turn the knob, the water doesn’t spring to life. Even worse, it starts to flow but it’s freezing! When this happens, you might as well get back under the covers and call in sick.

Hopefully, you never have to deal with this scenario because it is a real stinker. However, lots of homeowners get an ice-cold surprise in the morning that raises the heart rate. Why does this happen? It’s because the water pressure isn’t flowing correctly.

Don’t worry because there are ways to prevent the worst from happening. All you have to do is take a look at the following tips. These will warm up your heart as well as the rest of your body.

Turn On The Central Heating

It isn’t uncommon for homeowners to supplement the boiler with alternative forms of heating. After all, it can be cheap and effective. The problem with a log fire, for example, is the fact it doesn’t touch the pipes. The H2O which is still flowing around the central heating system will soon freeze when the mercury drops. If it does, your home will have no water at all, not to mention hot water. Plus, there’s a chance the pipes can burst and flood the property. By keeping the heating on throughout the winter, the water won’t freeze and it will flow without any problems, fingers crossed. Anyone who is worried about the cost can keep it at a low temperature to stop the expenses from spiralling out of control.

Wrap Exposed Pipes

Pipes freeze when they are exposed to the elements, especially when the mercury plummets. Sometimes, even an efficient boiler won’t be able to prevent the process if the weather is extremely cold. So, the trick is to look for any pipes which are exposed and need extra protection. Outside pipelines, for instance, are notorious for freezing over because they have no shelter. Wrapping them in tin foil should keep them warm and allow the water to flow. To take it one step further, you can box them off to prevent heat loss. The same rule applies for pipes inside the house which are exposed.

Consult A Pro

The people who are the biggest help are plumbers as they have skill and experience. Unfortunately, they also have an extortionate call out charge which most people can’t afford. Finding plumbers that won't drain your wallet isn’t an easy task, but it isn’t impossible as long as you know the tricks of the trade. To start with, don’t be afraid to ask questions in the hope that they answer them for free. Normally, a plumber won’t bill you for labour costs unless it’s a “proper” job. With websites and chatbots, all you have to do is go online and start typing. Another option is to speak to a friend or a friend of a friend for help. Hopefully, their mate’s rates will be a lot cheaper.

Remove Unnecessary Blockages

You don’t realize it, but there are blockages which stop the water from flowing freely. Do you have a garden hose, for example? Lots of people do, and, in the summertime, attach it to the main water fixture to dampen the lawn. During the summer months, it’s not a problem because warm water isn’t as in demand as in the wintertime. Plus, a gardener has got to see to their pride and joy. Now that the winter weather is here, it’s time to unscrew the hose and free up the water supply. For one thing, there is no reason to garden in subzero temperatures. Anyway, rainwater should keep the garden moist and lush. Also, the house takes precedence over the garden. When there is less strain on the water system, it should work more efficiently.

Check For Problems

Because you are not a plumber, spotting potential issues isn’t a simple task. In fact, it’s hard as you have no idea what to do or what to look for. Thankfully, there are a few obvious indicators to keep an eye out for which could lead to pressure problems. Cold radiators are issues which need addressing as soon as possible. If the heating is on and the heaters are not working, there could be a blockage. Even worse, the water could be freezing. Checking it for heat every once in awhile is an easy way to keep the water flowing around the house.

Although some of the above may cost, they will keep the water flowing all winter.


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