How to Address Low Water Pressure in Your Home

Low water pressure can be a frustrating issue for homeowners. Whether it’s a weak stream in the shower or slow-filling sinks, low water pressure can disrupt your daily routine and reduce the efficiency of your home’s plumbing. Understanding the causes of low water pressure and how to fix it can save you from unnecessary headaches and help restore the strong, steady flow you’re used to.

In this blog, we’ll discuss the common causes of low water pressure, simple troubleshooting steps, and long-term solutions for improving your home’s water flow.

Several factors can lead to low water pressure, and identifying the underlying cause is the first step to solving the problem. Here are some of the most common reasons homeowners experience reduced water flow:

1. Clogged Pipes

Over time, debris like mineral deposits, rust, and sediment can accumulate inside your home’s pipes, reducing the flow of water. This is particularly common in older homes with aging pipes. When these clogs form, they restrict water flow, leading to lower water pressure throughout the home.

2. Leaks in the Plumbing System

A hidden leak in your plumbing system can significantly reduce water pressure. When water is escaping through a leak, less water reaches your faucets, showers, and appliances. This can result in a noticeable drop in water pressure. Leaks may occur in underground pipes, walls, or floors, making them difficult to detect without professional help.

3. Faulty Pressure Regulator

Some homes are equipped with a pressure regulator, a device that controls the water pressure coming into your home. If this regulator malfunctions or is set too low, it can lead to reduced water pressure. In some cases, pressure regulators may need to be adjusted or replaced to restore proper water flow.

4. Corroded Pipes

Corrosion is a common issue in homes with older plumbing systems, especially if the pipes are made of galvanized steel or cast iron. As pipes corrode, they become narrower, restricting water flow and lowering water pressure.

5. Municipal Water Supply Issues

Low water pressure isn’t always a result of a problem within your home. Sometimes the issue lies with your local water supplier. If there’s a drop in water pressure across your entire neighborhood, it’s likely due to maintenance or issues with the municipal water system.

6. Partially Closed Shutoff Valve

If the main shutoff valve or a specific shutoff valve for a fixture isn’t fully open, it can restrict the flow of water. This is one of the most easily overlooked causes of low water pressure, especially after recent plumbing work or repairs.

7. Clogged Faucet Aerators and Showerheads

Mineral deposits and debris can build up in the small screens of your faucet aerators and showerheads, causing reduced water flow. If the problem is isolated to one or two fixtures, the aerators or showerheads may be clogged.

Once you’ve identified the potential cause of your low water pressure, you can begin to address the issue. Here are some practical steps you can take to improve your water flow:

1. Check for Leaks

One of the first steps in diagnosing low water pressure is to check for leaks in your plumbing system. Look for damp spots, water stains, or puddles near fixtures, walls, or floors. If you suspect a hidden leak, turn off all water fixtures and check your water meter. If the meter continues to move, you likely have a leak that needs to be repaired.

• Tip: If you can’t locate the leak yourself, call a professional plumber to perform a more detailed inspection.

2. Clean Faucet Aerators and Showerheads

If low water pressure is limited to certain faucets or showerheads, mineral buildup may be the cause. You can remove and clean the aerators or showerheads to improve water flow.

• How to Clean Aerators and Showerheads:
  • Unscrew the aerator or showerhead from the fixture.
  • Soak the parts in a solution of vinegar and water for about 30 minutes to dissolve mineral deposits.
  • Scrub away any remaining debris with a brush and reinstall the clean aerator or showerhead.

3. Ensure Valves Are Fully Open

Check your main shutoff valve and any shutoff valves for individual fixtures to ensure they are fully open. A partially closed valve can restrict water flow, leading to low water pressure.

• Tip: The main shutoff valve is usually located near your water meter or where the main water line enters your home. Turn it counterclockwise to ensure it’s fully open.

4. Flush Your Water Heater

If you’ve noticed low water pressure in your hot water, your water heater may be the culprit. Sediment can build up at the bottom of the water heater tank, reducing the flow of water to your faucets and showers. Flushing your water heater regularly can help prevent sediment buildup and improve water pressure.

• How to Flush a Water Heater:
  • Turn off the water heater and cold water supply.
  • Attach a hose to the drain valve and run the other end to a safe drainage area.
  • Open the valve and let the water drain out to flush the sediment.
  • Close the valve and turn the water heater back on once the tank is empty.

5. Replace a Faulty Pressure Regulator

If you have a pressure regulator and suspect it’s causing low water pressure, you may need to adjust or replace it. A professional plumber can check the regulator’s settings and ensure it’s functioning correctly.

• Tip: A properly functioning pressure regulator should keep water pressure between 40 and 60 psi (pounds per square inch). If the pressure is too low, it can cause weak water flow.

6. Address Clogged or Corroded Pipes

If you have old, corroded pipes, you may need to consider repiping certain sections of your home. This is especially important in homes with galvanized steel pipes, which tend to corrode and restrict water flow over time. Replacing old pipes with modern materials like copper or PEX can improve water pressure and prevent future issues.

For pipes that are simply clogged with mineral deposits, a professional plumber may recommend hydro jetting or pipe descaling to remove the buildup and restore water flow.

7. Contact Your Water Supplier

If you’ve ruled out issues within your home, contact your local water supplier to see if there are any ongoing maintenance activities or problems with the municipal water system. In some cases, a temporary drop in water pressure may be due to repairs or upgrades to the local water infrastructure.

When to Call a Professional Plumber

If you’ve tried basic troubleshooting and are still experiencing low water pressure, it’s time to call a professional plumber. A plumber can conduct a thorough inspection of your plumbing system, identify the root cause of the problem, and recommend the best course of action.

A plumber may be necessary if:

• You suspect a hidden leak in your home.
• You need to replace corroded or clogged pipes.
• The issue lies with your pressure regulator or water heater.
• You need professional hydro jetting or descaling to remove pipe blockages.

Conclusion: Restore Water Flow and Pressure in Your Home

Low water pressure can be frustrating, but by identifying the cause and taking the appropriate steps, you can restore strong water flow throughout your home. From cleaning fixtures and checking valves to addressing leaks and clogs, there are a variety of solutions for improving water pressure.

Contact Rad Plumbing for Low Water Pressure Solutions

If you’re dealing with persistent low water pressure, Rad Plumbing is here to help! Our team of experienced plumbers can diagnose the issue, repair leaks, replace outdated pipes, and restore proper water flow in your home.

Contact Rad Plumbing today to schedule an inspection or repair, and let us handle your plumbing concerns with expert care!

Dealing with a stubborn clog? Rad Plumbing is here to help! Our expert plumbers specialize in diagnosing and clearing clogged drains, preventing future blockages, and keeping your plumbing system in top condition.

Contact Rad Plumbing today to schedule a drain cleaning or inspection, and let us handle your plumbing concerns with ease!