Low water pressure is one of those small inconveniences that can feel like a big deal. You turn on the tap, and instead of the steady flow you expect, you get a disappointing trickle. Or worse, your toilet takes forever to fill up, leaving you frustrated.
You might be asking yourself, “Why is my water pressure low?”
The truth is, it could be a number of things causing the issue. There are many possible causes, from issues with your water supplier to a partially closed valve.
In this article, we’ll explore the most common causes of low water pressure and offer some practical solutions to get that water flowing strong again.
Key Takeaways
- Low water pressure can be caused by both internal and external factors.
- External causes include water supplier issues or city regulations.
- Internal causes range from clogged or corroded pipes to faulty fixtures.
- Many of these issues can be fixed by homeowners, but some may require professional help.
Understanding Low Water Pressure
First, let’s break down what low water pressure actually is. Water pressure refers to the force of water flowing through your pipes. It’s typically measured in pounds per square inch (PSI).
If the pressure in your home is between 45-55 PSI, you’re in good shape. Most people find this range comfortable. But if it drops below 40 PSI, you’ll start to notice. Anything at 30 PSI or lower, and even simple tasks like showering or washing dishes become a hassle.
Too much pressure, though, can cause leaks and damage to your plumbing system. High water pressure isn’t a good thing either—it can lead to issues like burst pipes or wear and tear on your fixtures.
Now that you’ve got a handle on what low pressure is, let’s dive into what might be causing it.
What Causes Low Water Pressure?
Low water pressure can result from external issues beyond your control or internal problems within your home’s plumbing system. Let’s break these down.
External Factors Affecting Water Pressure
Water Supplier Issues
If your neighbors are experiencing the same drop in pressure, the problem is probably with your water supplier. Sometimes, they need to perform repairs or maintenance that affects the whole area.
If that’s the case, give them a call to confirm what’s going on. They should be able to tell you if the issue is temporary and when things will be back to normal.
City Regulations
In some cases, new city water regulations could be to blame. Cities occasionally adjust water flow to conserve resources or comply with safety standards.
If this happens, your best bet might be to install a water pressure booster system. This is a job best left to a professional plumber, but it can make a big difference in your water flow.
Internal Factors Affecting Water Pressure
High Water Demand
This one’s pretty simple. If you’ve got multiple people using water at the same time, the pressure in your house is going to drop. If someone’s running the dishwasher while you’re trying to shower, both tasks will suffer.
Staggering water usage can help here. Wait until the dishwasher or washing machine is finished before jumping in the shower.
Main Shutoff Valve Isn’t Open All the Way
If your water pressure has suddenly dropped, the main shutoff valve might not be fully open. This is an easy fix, just check the valve and turn it counterclockwise to fully open it. If it’s a lever-style valve, make sure it’s parallel to the pipe.
The Water Meter Valve Isn’t Open All the Way
Sometimes, the water company may need to shut off your supply temporarily for repairs. If they didn’t fully reopen the water meter valve afterward, your pressure could suffer.
Unfortunately, this valve is often controlled by the water company, so you might need to call them if you suspect this is the issue.
Malfunctioning Water Pressure Regulator
The water pressure regulator is like the gatekeeper for your home’s plumbing system. If it’s malfunctioning, it can cause too much or too little pressure.
You can test the water pressure yourself using a pressure gauge. If the reading is way off, it’s time to call a plumber to adjust or replace the regulator.
Clogged Pipes
Over time, minerals and debris can build up in your pipes, reducing the flow of water. This is especially common in homes with hard water.
Clogged pipes aren’t always easy to fix, and attempting to clean them yourself can sometimes cause damage. A plumber can clear out the deeper clogs safely.
Corroded Pipes
Older homes, especially those with galvanized steel pipes, often suffer from corrosion. As these pipes age, they rust from the inside out, causing blockages and reducing water flow.
If you’re noticing a steady decline in water pressure over time, corroded pipes could be to blame. If the corrosion is widespread, you may need to consider re-piping the affected areas.
Leaking Pipes
Leaks are another common cause of low water pressure. If water is leaking out of the pipes before it reaches your faucets, less of it makes its way to where you need it. If you suspect a leak, you can try to locate it by checking for wet spots or water damage in your home.
Small leaks can be temporarily patched, but you’ll need a plumber to fix them properly before they cause bigger problems.
Undersized Older Branch Lines
Sometimes, the issue is with the size of your pipes. Older homes may have branch lines that are too small to support modern water demands.
If you’ve added new fixtures or appliances, the old water lines might not be able to keep up. A plumber can evaluate your system and recommend upgrades if necessary.
Shared Pipelines
If you share water pipes with your neighbors, your pressure might drop when they’re using water. This is especially common in multi-family units or homes with shared water supplies.
Adjusting your water usage to off-peak times can help. In extreme cases, you may need to consider upgrading your pipes or even your entire system.
Faulty Fixtures
Sometimes, the issue isn’t with your plumbing system at all—it’s the plumbing fixtures. Blocked or outdated aerators and shower heads can restrict water flow.
This is an easy fix. Simply clean or replace the aerators to see if that improves the pressure.
When to Call a Professional
If you’ve tried these solutions and are still dealing with low water pressure, it might be time to call in the pros. Mister Greenway can help with issues like replacing corroded pipes, upgrading small branch lines, or addressing major clogs.
Don’t let low water pressure slow you down. Call for our trained techs who can be at your home within 30 minutes, ready to get things back to normal.
FAQs
Low water pressure can be frustrating, and you likely have more questions. Below are some frequently asked questions to help clarify common concerns.
What should the water pressure be in my home?
The ideal water pressure is between 45-55 PSI. Anything below 40 PSI is considered low, and at 30 PSI or lower, everyday tasks can become challenging.
Can clogged pipes cause low water pressure?
Yes, clogged pipes can restrict water flow and cause a drop in pressure. If mineral deposits or debris build up inside your pipes, you might need a plumber to clear them.
How can I check if my water pressure regulator is working?
You can test the water pressure with a gauge. If the pressure is significantly higher or lower than normal, the regulator may be malfunctioning. A plumber can adjust or replace it if needed.
Do I need a plumber to fix a water leak?
While small leaks can be temporarily patched, a plumber is your best bet for a permanent fix. Leaks not only lower water pressure but can cause significant water damage over time.
Why is my water pressure fine in some parts of the house but low in others?
This could be due to a localized issue, such as a clogged pipe or a faulty fixture. Try cleaning or replacing fixtures in the affected areas. If the problem persists, it may be a deeper issue in the plumbing system.
What can I do if my water pressure is too high?
High water pressure can cause damage to your pipes and fixtures. If you notice abnormally high pressure, a plumber can install or adjust a pressure regulator to bring it back to normal levels.
Final Thoughts
Low water pressure can be a real headache, but with the right approach, it’s often fixable. From something as simple as adjusting a valve to larger plumbing system overhauls, there’s always a solution.
Homeowners can troubleshoot many of these issues themselves, but if you’re feeling stuck, don’t hesitate to reach out for professional help. Contact Mister Greenway in Nashville for reliable plumbing services that will restore your water pressure and keep things flowing smoothly.
