8 Reasons Why You Have Low Water Pressure

There’s nothing worse than jumping in the shower after a long day at work, only to find that your water has slowed down to a trickle. Low water pressure is a major inconvenience that many homes experience.

If you’ve found your water is only dribbling out, or worse there’s no water pressure at all, here are eight possible reasons why this might be happening, and how you can fix it.

1. Water Supply Failure

If your water pressure has suddenly dropped, it might be wise to start by asking your local council about their water supply. Their plumbing needs servicing just like yours, and the fault might actually lie with their pipes.

Any major works in your area might also have temporarily decreased your water pressure. Not much can be done in these cases, unfortunately. The unpleasant experience can serve to remind you to have your plumbing serviced regularly to avoid this nightmare becoming a long-term problem.

2. The Wrong Size Pipes Have Been Installed

When your water pressure drops after you’ve recently had work done on your piping, it may be a sign that you’ve had the wrong size pipes installed. It’s important to ensure your plumber is experienced and knowledgeable in all things plumbing. You might be left with poor quality workmanship and more problems than when you started otherwise.

DIY plumbing or hiring unsupervised amateurs can be appealing if you’re looking to cut your costs. However, they can unfortunately lead to bigger problems, and ultimately a higher cost for you down the road.

3. Mineral Build-Up In Your Pipes

Despite being clear and colourless, water contains a number of different minerals. As the water travels through your pipes, these minerals are deposited. Over time, these minerals can build up and create blockages in your pipes which cause you to experience low water pressure.

This build-up can be removed by the use of specialised chemicals which break down the mineral deposits. They can then be flushed out of the system, allowing water to flow normally again.

4. Your Pipes Are Corroded

If your pipes are made of steel or galvanised iron, they are susceptible to corrosion. Much like mineral build-up, this can cause blockages which lower your water pressure.

Depending on the extent of corrosion, you can increase water pressure by having small section of corroded pipes cleaned or replaced. If left long enough, your entire pipe system could become corroded and you might need the entire thing replaced which could become very costly.

5. Faulty Fixtures

Before you assume your entire piping system needs to be replaced, be sure to check for any faulty fixtures that might make it appear that you have low water pressure. Just like your pipes, fixtures such as taps and shower heads are also prone to blockages. This is especially true if you only notice pressure problems from certain fixtures.

A simple clean of your fixtures could be the solution to your problems. For older fixtures, it might be easier to just replace them with new ones.

6. You Have Leaking Pipes

Your low water pressure could be the result of a leaking pipe. If the leak is not obvious, you can check for it by shutting off and closing all taps and valves leading in and out of your home and recording the metre reading.

Come back a few hours later, and if this reading has increased, you’ve sprung a leak.

Leaking pipes are best left to fully qualified plumbers, so a call to Plumber Near Me might be in order!

7. Water Demand Is Too High

If you notice low water pressure problems when multiple people are using water at once, it might just be that you’re home is demanding more water than it can provide. This could be solved by some simple coordination between family members to spread out the water usage across the day.

If you have low hot water pressure specifically, it could be a problem with your home’s hot water system, or perhaps it’s time to upsize.

8. Broken Water Pressure Regulator

A broken water pressure regulator is one of the common culprits behind low water pressure in your home. This device is responsible for controlling the water pressure entering your plumbing system. When it malfunctions, it can disrupt the balance and result in decreased water pressure throughout your house.

A faulty pressure regulator may fail to maintain the desired pressure level, leading to inadequate flow in your faucets, showers, and other water fixtures. This can be caused by wear and tear over time, internal component failure, or a sudden spike in water pressure.

To identify a broken water pressure regulator, look for signs such as inconsistent water pressure, unusually high or low pressure, or water hammering noises. If you suspect a problem, it is best to consult a professional plumber to assess and repair or replace the pressure regulator as needed.

By addressing a broken water pressure regulator promptly, you can restore the proper water pressure in your home and enjoy improved functionality and convenience in your daily water usage.

Taking Action to Restore Pressure

Low water pressure can be a frustrating issue that affects the functionality and comfort of your home. Understanding the underlying reasons behind this problem is crucial in finding effective solutions. Throughout this article, we have explored eight common reasons why you may be experiencing low water pressure.

• Old and corroded pipes can restrict the flow of water, resulting in diminished pressure. Mineral deposits and sediments can accumulate in the pipes, further impeding the water flow.
• A faulty pressure regulator may not be allowing sufficient pressure into your plumbing system. Leaks in the pipes can cause water pressure to drop significantly.
• Clogged or damaged fixtures, such as faucets or showerheads, can restrict the flow of water.
• An increased demand for water in your area can lead to lower pressure. Local water supply issues, such as mainline breaks or maintenance, can affect water pressure in your home.
• Lastly, inadequate water supply infrastructure can also contribute to low pressure problems.

To address low water pressure, it is important to diagnose the specific cause affecting your situation. Whether it requires cleaning or replacing pipes, fixing leaks, installing a pressure regulator, or seeking assistance from your local water provider, taking action can restore the water pressure in your home.

By identifying and resolving the underlying factors contributing to low water pressure, you can enjoy a steady and satisfying water flow, enhancing your daily routines and overall comfort.

Remember, it’s always recommended to consult with a professional plumber if you’re unsure about the best course of action for your specific situation.

Need help with your water pressure? Contact Plumber Near Me today.

Please note: This information is provided for advice purposes only. Regulations differ from state to state, so please consult your local authorities or an industry professional before proceeding with any work. See our Terms & Conditions here.