If you have low water pressure in your house, it might be due to a shut-off valve or a water meter valve that is not fully open, a failing pressure regulator, clogged or corroded pipes, shared pipelines, leaking pipes, or faulty fixtures.
Water pressure issues can disrupt daily life, whether it is a trickling shower, slow-filling sinks, or a washing machine that takes forever to run. Before calling a plumber, understand what might be causing this problem and what fixes you can handle yourself. Read on and discover!
Why Is My Water Pressure Low?
Low water pressure can result from various issues, some of which are easy to address and others that may require professional help. The most common reason is an obstruction or issue within your plumbing system. Still, sometimes external factors like problems with the municipal water supply or temporary maintenance work in your area could also be to blame.
What Causes Low Water Pressure?
A shut-off valve or water meter valve that is not fully open, a failing pressure regulator, clogged or corroded pipes, shared pipelines, leaking pipes, or faulty fixtures can cause low water pressure in the shower, kitchen sink, washing machine, or other fixtures. The list below explains these culprits and gives tips on how to fix them; check it out!
1. Clogged Pipes
Mineral deposits or debris can build up inside your pipes, reducing water flow. To fix this, you may need to flush your plumbing system or, in severe cases, replace piping sections. Read this other eHARDHAT guide for more information on pipe repairs.
2. Leaking Pipes
A leak in your pipes can reduce water pressure by allowing water to escape before it reaches your fixtures. Look for signs of water damage or hire a professional to conduct a pressure test to locate hidden leaks. Repairing or replacing damaged pipes can restore pressure.
3. Closed Shut-Off Valve
If your home's main shut-off valve is not fully open, it can reduce water pressure throughout the house. You can restore normal pressure levels by simply checking the valve and guaranteeing it is fully turned on.
4. Faulty Fixtures
Over time, faucets and showerheads can get clogged with sediment, reducing water flow. For example, if you only have low water pressure in the kitchen sink, the fixture itself may be the issue. Cleaning, replacing, or repairing the plumbing fixture should solve the problem.
5. Water Meter Valve Not Fully Open
The water meter valve, typically located near the street or where the water line enters your home, controls the amount of water entering the house. If this valve is not fully open, it can restrict water flow and you may need to contact your water provider to adjust the valve.
6. Faulty Pressure Regulator
Many homes have pressure regulators to control water pressure entering the house. If this device malfunctions, it can cause pressure to drop. Replacing a faulty pressure regulator is usually the solution.
7. Shared Pipelines
If your home shares a water supply pipeline with neighbors, high demand during peak times can reduce water pressure. This issue is more complex to fix but can sometimes be mitigated by installing a pressure booster or adjusting water usage schedules.
8. Problems With The Municipal Water Supply
If your neighbors are experiencing similar issues, it could be a problem with the municipal water system. In such cases, contact your local water provider to find out if there are repairs or maintenance underway.
9. Corroded Plumbing
Older homes with galvanized steel pipes can experience corrosion inside the pipes, restricting water flow. Replacing these outdated pipes with modern materials like copper or PEX can improve pressure.
What About Low Hot Water Pressure?
Low hot water pressure is often caused by issues specific to the water heater or the pipes connected to it. Common causes include sediment buildup inside the water heater, which restricts water flow, or a malfunctioning water heater valve.
Older galvanized steel pipes leading from the heater can corrode, reducing the flow of hot water. In some cases, the issue may also stem from a partially closed valve on the hot water line. Flushing the water heater, checking and adjusting the valves, or replacing corroded pipes can typically resolve the problem.
Call eHARDHAT plumbers for a guaranteed solution to your low water pressure in the house. They will use their expertise to answer all your questions about the topic!
