Cold weather can create problems you may not expect, and one of the most frustrating is low water pressure. When temperatures drop, pipes can freeze, valves can tighten, and your well system may not perform as efficiently as usual. Even a small pressure change can make showers, laundry, and daily routines more difficult.
If your water pressure suddenly drops during the winter, it is often a sign that something in your system needs attention. Frozen pipes, mineral buildup, or a worn pressure switch are all common causes. The good news is that most of these issues are easy to identify and fix before they turn into costly repairs.
Whether it’s low water pressure or anything else to do with your well system this winter, don’t hesitate to contact the Greco & Haines team! We’re here to help seven days a week and 365 days a year.
Below are six practical ways to get your water pressure back to normal and keep your plumbing running smoothly through the coldest months of the year.
1. Check for Frozen Pipes
Frozen pipes are one of the most common causes of low water pressure in winter. In colder climates such as Connecticut, long stretches of freezing temperatures can cause water inside exposed or poorly insulated lines to turn to ice, restricting or completely stopping flow.
Pipes in basements, crawl spaces, and garages are most at risk, especially during power outages or furnace failures. Even a small section of ice can lower pressure throughout the house, and if it expands, it may burst the pipe.
If water slows to a trickle, feel for cold spots or frost along the line. Shut off the water supply, then gently warm the frozen area with a space heater or hair dryer, keeping safety in mind. Once the water flows again, check the pipe for cracks or leaks.
Adding insulation, sealing gaps, and maintaining a steady indoor temperature are the best ways to prevent freezing during New England winters.
2. Check for Leaks
Leaks are another common cause of low water pressure in winter. Even a small crack in a pipe can reduce flow and waste a surprising amount of water over time. Cold temperatures, aging plumbing, or ice buildup can all create weak spots that lead to slow leaks, especially in older homes common across Connecticut and New England.
Look for damp spots, dripping sounds, or unexplained puddles around pipes, fixtures, and your pressure tank. Leaks hidden behind walls or in crawl spaces can be harder to find, but they often reveal themselves through reduced pressure at multiple taps.
If you suspect a leak, shut off the water supply and call a plumber or well service technician to locate the problem. Temporary patches might work for a short time, but permanent repairs usually require replacing the damaged section of pipe. Fixing small leaks promptly helps prevent bigger problems and keeps your plumbing system protected through the coldest months.
3. Check the Pressure Switch
If your water pressure drops suddenly, the problem may be as simple as a setting on your pressure switch. This small component controls when the well pump turns on and off, maintaining steady pressure throughout your plumbing system. For homes with private wells, especially in colder climates like Connecticut, the pressure switch and tank are critical to keeping water flowing consistently during winter.
Most homes operate best between 40 and 60 PSI. If the switch is set too low or has worn contacts, your system may not deliver enough pressure. Before adjusting anything, turn off the power to your well pump for safety. Then check the switch near the pressure tank for signs of corrosion or loose connections.
If you are not comfortable making adjustments, contact a licensed plumber or well service technician. A professional can test the switch, calibrate the PSI, and make sure the pressure tank and pump are working together correctly.
4. Check for Clogged Pipes or Fixtures
Not every winter water pressure problem is caused by freezing. In many homes across Connecticut, naturally hard water can lead to mineral buildup, sediment, or debris inside pipes that restricts flow and reduces pressure. Over time, these minerals collect inside faucets, showerheads, and aerators, narrowing the openings where water passes through.
Start by checking whether low water pressure affects every tap or just one area. If it’s limited to a single fixture, remove and clean the aerator or showerhead to clear any blockage. Soaking parts in vinegar can help dissolve mineral deposits and restore normal flow.
If the pressure drop occurs throughout your home, the issue may be deeper in your plumbing system. Have a professional inspect your pipes and pressure tank for buildup or partial clogs. Installing a water softener or filtration system can help prevent minerals from accumulating again and protect your plumbing for the long term.
5. Check Plumbing Valves
If you have already ruled out frozen pipes, leaks, and clogs but still have low water pressure, the problem may be with your plumbing valves. Valves control how water moves through your system, and if one is partially closed or damaged, pressure can drop throughout your home.
Make sure your main shut-off valve is fully open. Even being slightly closed can restrict flow. Many homes in Connecticut also have a pressure-reducing valve that helps regulate overall pressure. Over time, this valve can wear out or become stuck, causing uneven flow or pressure loss.
If you only notice low pressure when using hot water, check your water heater. Sediment buildup or a faulty shut-off valve can both reduce flow at the tap. Replacing worn or malfunctioning valves, especially in private well systems, often restores normal water pressure quickly and keeps your plumbing running efficiently.
6. Install a Constant Pressure System
Sometimes low water pressure is not caused by a problem in your system but by increased demand. When multiple fixtures run at once, such as a shower and washing machine, your pressure may drop temporarily.
A constant pressure system can solve this issue by automatically adjusting your pump’s motor speed based on water use. This setup keeps pressure steady throughout your home, even when several taps or appliances are operating at the same time.
If pressure drops continue, other upgrades may help. A booster pump, well pump replacement, or additional pressure tank can increase overall water flow and maintain consistent pressure during peak usage.
For most homeowners, installing a constant pressure system is the most efficient long-term solution for managing water pressure fluctuations.
Well Water Services and Water Pressure Solutions in Connecticut
Sometimes fixing low water pressure is simple, such as adjusting a pressure valve or cleaning a faucet aerator. Other times, it takes a closer look to find the cause. A hidden leak, mineral buildup, or worn part in your well pump system can all affect water flow and pressure. In some cases, reduced pressure may even indicate a drop in your well’s water level.
If you rely on a private well in Connecticut, seasonal maintenance is the best way to keep your system running smoothly. Regular water quality testing, well inspections, and pressure checks help catch small issues before they lead to costly repairs.
For more information about our well water services in CT, contact us today via our online contact form or call any time! 203-735-9308 or 203-777-2256 or Call Toll-Free from any CT Area Code 1-800-922-2958.