Low water pressure can be frustrating, whether it’s a trickle in the shower or a slow-filling sink; it is very disruptive to the daily routine. Low water pressure signals underlying plumbing issues that high-quality plumbers like those at The Clear Choice Plumbing can detect very easily. We will take you through some of the most common issues that may cause low water pressure and how you can fix them. Knowing these common causes can be very helpful in understanding what might be wrong, so that you know whether you can fix it yourself or you need to call professional help.
Common Causes
- Clogged Pipes-
Issue: As your pipes are being used, over time, deposits of mineral, rust, debris, etc., can build up inside the pipes. If you have metal pipes, they can also get corroded over time. This reduces the space that the water has to flow through, reducing its speed. This is quite common in older homes, which may have galvanised steel piping.
Fix: Generally, a professional pipe cleaning helps with the clogging, but sometimes the case is too severe where the pipes are barely hanging on. Then, complete replacement is a better bet to have your water pressure return to normal. Clogging can also be prevented through regular maintenance of your pipes, which will stop any extreme cases from happening..
- Faulty Pressure Regulator
Issue: A pressure regulator controls the water pressure entering your home. If it fails, it may cause pressure to spike or drop unexpectedly. This generally happens due to hardware malfunction, and you can’t do anything to prevent it.
Fix: You can contact plumbers Victoria BC, to come and check if you notice signs of a sudden shift in water pressure. They can test it expertly and replace the malfunctioning regulator.
- Partially Closed Valves
Issue: There are a few valves that control the water pressure in your home. If your main water shutoff valve or the water meter valve isn’t fully open, it can restrict flow and lower pressure throughout the home.
Fix: You should first check if both valves are fully open. If you’re unsure about their location or how to adjust them, do not take matters into your untrained hands because that might aggravate the issues more. You should contact a plumber who will check and fix this valve for you. Once fixed, it should fix the water pressure throughout your home.
- Leaky Pipes
Issue: If your pipes aren’t in the best condition, they may be the problem with your water pressure. Water leaks through pipes not only waste water but also reduce water pressure throughout the water system of your home. If it is a big lak which catches your eye, you can readily fix but often times leaks happen through the smallest pin holes or perforations in the interior pipes which you do not generally see. This ignorance, through no fault of your own, can greatly hamper the water pressure.
Fix : Inspect your plumbing and any surrounding or adjacent areas for signs of moisture, mold, or water stains. These are visible signs of invisible leaks and get them fixed as soons as you notice or even suspect anything. This will restore your water pressure but more importantly, prevent any further damage to your home and your water systems.
Simple Homeowner Tips
- Clean your faucet aerators and showerheads. Mineral buildups clog these fixtures, which adds to the issue.
- Installing a pressure booster pump can be useful in homes which have low pressure consistently. This might issue might have nothing to do with your house or your plumbing but might just arise due to elevation or distance from the main water line. A booster helps regulate the deficiency that might be geographical and allows you to be comfortable.
- You can also install a water pressure gauge to an outdoor spigot to check your homes water pressure. The normal range should be between 40-50 PSI.
If home remedies aren’t enough, make sure you contact professional plumbers in your area. They can do a thorough check and fix any problems once and for all. Low water pressure isn’t just an inconvenience but an effect of bigger problems. Promptly solving it ensures your home can be functional, efficient, and comfortable.