Possible Reasons for Low Water Pressure in the Home
If homeowners are frustrated with weak water pressure at home from plumbing fixtures, they may wonder what has caused it so they can get good water pressure again. There are many potential causes, most of which require a professional's assistance. However, a few can be solved by homeowners. This post will discuss some possible reasons for low water pressure and what can be done to fix it.
Faulty Fixtures or Closed Valves
Troubleshooting low water pressure often begins with examining fixtures and valves, as these are common culprits behind water pressure issues. When dealing with poor water pressure, homeowners should determine whether low water pressure is occurring with a single fixture, like a showerhead, or is an issue throughout the home’s fixtures.
Mineral deposits can gradually accumulate inside plumbing fixtures like faucets and showerheads, restricting water flow over time and causing low water pressure from that fixture. If only one fixture exhibits low water pressure, the solution may be to clean the fixture to remove these deposits and restore proper water pressure. Or the aging fixture may need replacing, especially if cleaning doesn't resolve the issue.
For water pressure problems throughout the home in multiple fixtures, homeowners can investigate their water valves. The main water shutoff valve or water meter valve may be partially closed, reducing water pressure throughout the home. These control mechanisms can be adjusted during maintenance or gradually close over time due to vibration. So, homeowners should ensure these valves are fully open and see if that solves the water pressure issue.
Water Leaks
Hidden water leaks in the plumbing can also reduce water pressure from fixtures throughout a house. When water escapes through a burst pipe or leaking water pipes, less water reaches faucets and showerheads. Professional water leak repair can restore normal water pressure when this is the cause.
Have homeowners noticed that their water bills have increased despite normal usage, along with the home’s water pressure issues? This further points to a water leak in need of water leak detection and repair. Leaks should be caught and repaired as soon as possible to help prevent additional and costly problems like water damage.
Clogs and Buildup
Another potential cause of low water pressure in the home is clogs and buildup in the home's water lines. These obstructions can gradually restrict water flow over time, eventually causing poor water pressure. Buildup and clogs in the water line can be caused by mineral deposits and old, corroded pipes. Corrosion inside metal pipes creates rough surfaces where debris and minerals can more easily collect. This narrows the pipe diameter and reduces water pressure.
Other signs of pipe corrosion besides low water pressure are discolored water that can look rusty, or water with an unusual metallic smell or taste from fixtures. If homeowners are experiencing water pressure problems and opening valves and fixture cleaning doesn’t solve it, a plumber can inspect the plumbing and determine the cause and how to best fix it.
About Super Plumbers
Super Plumbers is a local, family-owned and operated company serving the Tyler community for over a decade. They provide upfront pricing, respectful technicians, and a 100% satisfaction guarantee. Call them for plumbing services in Tyler, TX.
