Do you have problems with low water pressure in your home? Low water pressure can be frustrating, but luckily it’s usually an easy fix unless you need to change the entire plumbing. In this post, we’ll cover 6 common reasons why your home might have lower-than-expected water pressure. Don’t despair — help to restore adequate water flow to your taps can be just around the corner!
6 reasons why your home has low water pressure
Water Pressure Regulator Faults
Water pressure regulators control the pressure of water flowing into your home’s plumbing. Regulators ensure that the water pressure is neither too high nor too low. A faulty or clogged water pressure regulator can cause low water pressure (and sometimes a spike too). If you are not familiar with replacing a faulty regulator, it is advisable to get a professional plumber to do it.
Build-ups or Leaks in Faucets and Fixtures
Leaking faucets and fixtures is one of the most common reasons for low water pressure, according to plumbing experts in Springfield. The pressure from the faucet or showerhead will be reduced if water exits through any break or crack in your fixtures.
Fixtures, including shower heads and faucets, can wear out or clog over time. Sometimes a simple screen or aerator clean-out can take care of the problem, but at times a complete fixture replacement may be necessary.
Clogged Pipes
A clogged pipe is frequently the cause of low water pressure. The pipeline’s aerators, valves, and other components can be jammed with dirt, mineral deposits or other debris, slowing the water flow. Algae and broken-off bits from plug fittings are two more potential causes of blocked pipes. You will need to engage a plumbing expert in Springfield to identify and fix a clogged pipe.
Corroded plumbing
Corroded plumbing is typically seen in older homes, usually with galvanized pipes or untreated cast iron pipes. As pipes corrode, their inner diameter narrows, reducing the amount of water that can pass through at any given time. To prevent this problem from occurring or improving low-pressure fixtures, you may need to replace certain sections of pipe with new ones that are able to transport water efficiently around your property. A professional plumber will be able to identify the issue accurately and provide the necessary advice regarding the best course of action going forward.
Problems with water valves
Low water pressure can be due to issues in the water meter shut-off valve or the house shut-off valve. The water meter valve is maintained by the water company, and the house valve is inside your home. If you’ve recently had a plumbing repair or maintenance done at your home, one or both of the valves would have been shut off. If the valves are not opened fully after the maintenance, it can affect the water pressure of your home’s plumbing. Check the house valve and ensure it is fully open. The water meter valve may be underground, so you’ll need to contact the water company to check and ensure it is fully opened.
6. Shared pipelines
If your home has shared pipelines, commonly seen in apartments, peak-time usage can see a water pressure drop. There’s not much that you can do to fix this. The best way would be to change the timings for non-essential washing and other water usages to non-peak times.
Don’t let low water pressure get you down — there are a number of possible explanations, and most can be remedied easily. Check for the most common causes outlined in this post, and if all else fails, contact us at White Plumbing Company. We’ll be happy to help solve your home water pressure mystery and restore adequate flow to your taps!
