What Causes Low Water Pressure?

Solutions To Improve Water Flow in Your Home

There are several possible causes of low water pressure in a home, and the fixes can range from simple plumbing fixture upgrades to more complex water supply upgrades. Here are some helpful tips to diagnose and solve some of the most common causes of reduced water flow in the home.

Water supply pipe diameter is too small

If the pipes that bring water into your home are too small, it can restrict the flow of water, resulting in low pressure. The best solution in this situation is to have your plumber install larger pipes.

Obstructions in the water supply pipes

Over time, blockages can form in the pipes, such as mineral deposits or sediment build-up. This will gradually reduce the flow of water and cause low pressure. Your plumber can use specialized tools to remove the blockages and restore the flow of water.

Leaks in the plumbing system

If there are any leaks in the plumbing, it can cause the water pressure to drop. If the source of the leak is not known, have a plumber locate the source of the leak and repair or replace the damaged pipe.

Faucet aerators are blocked

Hard water and debris can cause faucet aerators to become dirty and clogged over time, eventually restricting the flow of water. By regularly removing and cleaning the faucet aerator screens you can keep the water flowing freely. Vinegar can be used to dissolve mineral deposits on faucet aerators and shower heads. Simply submerge them overnight to dissolve the mineral deposits.

If hard water is a problem in your home, a water filtration system or water softener can be installed to reduce the mineral content.

Low-flow shower heads

If your shower head has a low-flow fixture in place, try swapping it out with a regular shower head fixture to increase the flow of water. Inexpensive, high-pressure shower heads are also available.

Water supply valves are not fully open

If the water supply valve in your home has recently been shut off, it may not have been returned to the fully opened position. Check to ensure it is fully opened.

Water demand is too high

When multiple fixtures are being used at the same time, it can put a strain on the water supply and lead to low pressure.
To reduce the demand on the water supply, try staggering the use of water-intensive fixtures, such as showers and washing machines.

Another option is to install low-flow shower heads and toilets, which use less water and can help to reduce demand.

Water pressure regulator is not working properly

The water pressure regulator is a device that is installed on the main water line to control the pressure of the water entering your home. If it is not working properly, it can cause low water pressure.

If the water pressure regulator is not working properly, your plumber can diagnose and repair the issue. The regulator may need to be cleaned, adjusted, or replaced.

Advanced Solutions For Low Water Pressure

If you’ve checked the techniques above to increase your home’s water pressure without success, Hickey Plumbing, Air & Electrical can help diagnose and solve more problematic water pressure problems.

When water pressure is poor throughout your entire home, one solution is to install a residential water pressure booster. A water pressure booster is a supplementary water pump that works with your home’s existing water supply to increase water pressure.

Another option is to increase the size of the main pipe supplying water to your house. We can help determine what type of water pipes you have in the home and running to your water meter.

Pipe size is an important factor in the amount of water pressure you’ll get in your home. The larger the pipes, the more the water pressure, so you may want to consider increasing the size of the main pipe servicing your house.

If you’re concerned about low water pressure in your home, call Hickey Plumbing, Air & Electrical. We’re here to help with all your home plumbing repair and upgrade needs.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]