Homeowners know that experiencing low water pressure can be extremely frustrating, especially when it can come from a wide variety of causes. It can make the simplest and most necessary tasks, like showering, washing dishes, or watering the garden, feel like monumental chores.
If you’re experiencing low water pressure, finding and preventing the source is crucial. This guide will help restore normal water flow and ensure a smooth-running household.
Keep reading to learn more about the top five causes of low water pressure and the steps you can take to repair or prevent them.
The Top 5 Causes of Low Water Pressure
Without further ado, here are the top 5 most common causes of low water pressure.
1. Clogged Pipes
Clogged pipes naturally lead to blockages. These clogs restrict the flow of water, resulting in reduced water pressure. Older homes with galvanized steel pipes are particularly susceptible to this issue, as these pipes are prone to corrosion.
If your clogs are piped, it helps to start by locating the source of the clog. Identify what fixtures are affected, what pipes may lead to it, or, if multiple fixtures are affected, which line connects them. This will help you localize the area for yourself to clear the clog, or do advise your plumber of.
Try dissolving the buildup with vinegar and baking soda, then hot water, for minor clogs. A plumbing snake or a pipe brush can also help dislodge debris.
2. Leaking Pipes
Leaks in your plumbing system can significantly reduce water pressure. They can occur for various reasons, including pipe corrosion, loose connections, or physical damage. Not only do leaks reduce water pressure, but they can also lead to water damage and higher utility bills.
Check your water meter when no water is being used to detect leaks. If the meter continues to run, you likely have a leak in your home. You should also regularly inspect visible pipes for moisture, stains, or puddles, but especially when experiencing low water pressure.
Small leaks can often be fixed with pipe tape or sealant. For more significant leaks, you may need to replace the affected section of the pipe, which will require a professional plumbing service. Plumbers can use advanced techniques like thermal imaging or acoustic sensors to locate and repair hidden leaks.
3. Faulty Pressure Regulator
A pressure regulator (or pressure-reducing valve) is a device that controls the pressure of water entering your home. If this device malfunctions, it can either allow too much pressure, potentially damaging your plumbing, or too little, leading to low water pressure.
Fortunately, you can test the regulator yourself. Attach a water pressure gauge to an outside faucet and compare the reading with your regulator’s setting. If there’s a discrepancy, your regulator might be faulty.
If the regulator is the issue, it’s usually more cost-effective to replace it rather than repair it. A knowledgeable DIYer or a qualified plumber can complete this task.
4. Municipal Water Supply Issues
Sometimes, the issue isn’t within your home but with the municipal water supply. Maintenance work, broken water mains, or high demand during peak usage times can temporarily drop water pressure.
If you’ve already investigated the most common causes of low water pressure, it might be time to check with your neighbors to see if they are also experiencing the issue. If they are, the problem is likely with the municipal supply.
The next step is to report the issue to your local water department to determine whether there is ongoing maintenance or a known problem in your area. While waiting for the municipal supply to return to normal, use water-saving fixtures and appliances to maintain home functionality.
5. Partially Closed Valves
The valves in your plumbing system, including the main shut-off valve and individual fixture valves, control water flow throughout your home. They can restrict water flow and cause low pressure if they are not fully open.
If you’re unfamiliar with your system’s valves, it’s time to find them! The main shut-off valve is usually located where the water line enters your home. When you do, ensure that the main shut-off valve and any individual fixture valves are fully open. Valves can sometimes be accidentally left partially closed after maintenance or repair work.
Prevention Tips for Low Water Pressure
Before you go, here are some final tips on preventing some common causes of low water pressure. Save these, or share them with your friends and family to help avoid the annoying problem from arising.
- Water softener: Install a water softener to reduce mineral buildup, and periodically flush your pipes by turning off the main water supply and running all faucets to clear out sediment.
- Routine inspections: Regularly inspect and operate all valves to ensure they are in good working order. This practice can prevent corrosion and ensure they are fully functional when needed. You should also regularly inspect your plumbing system for signs of wear and tear and check for leaking water.
- Pipe insulation: Insulate pipes to prevent freezing and subsequent bursting in colder climates.
All in all, sometimes low water pressure cannot be avoided. However, by closely monitoring your plumbing fixtures and systems and regularly maintaining them, you can prevent these common causes and many other common plumbing issues.
The Final Word: Low Water Pressure
Low water pressure isn’t just an inconvenience; it can indicate an underlying issue in your plumbing system. With this guide, you now better understand the common causes and can take proactive steps to address and prevent them. Knowing this will help you maintain optimal water pressure and ensure a reliable water supply in your home.
Regular maintenance and prompt attention to issues, as they arise, are also vital to keeping your plumbing system in top condition. So, it helps to have a plumber you can trust on call and on hand. If you’re in Metro Detroit, meet none other than WaterWork Plumbing. Our team takes pride in servicing an expansive area with residential and commercial plumbing services. Contact us to schedule an appointment for one-time repairs or ongoing preventative maintenance.
