Low water pressure is a common plumbing issue you may encounter. Whether trying to wash your hands or take a shower, low water pressure can make daily tasks incredibly frustrating. Here, we’ll explore potential causes of low water pressure and how you can resolve the issue.
Pressure Regulator Problems
A malfunctioning or incorrectly set pressure regulator may reduce the flow of water.
A water pressure regulator set too low can restrict water pressure. If the pressure regulator is set to 50 psi, but the water pressure throughout your home is lower, it could be due to a failing water pressure regulator.
What to Do
If you are unable to adjust the pressure regulator, it indicates a problem with it. A plumber will need to handle this. They’ll have to repair or replace the pressure regulator.
Water Pipes Leak
Leaking water pipes can cause low water pressure by reducing the amount of water that reaches where it is needed, such as a faucet. It is essential to have a plumber repair a leaking pipe quickly, as they can cause problems far beyond low pressure, such as water damage, mold, and even fire.
What to Do
While you may be able to locate a leaking pipe by checking exposed pipes, you’ll want to save any pipe repairs for a professional plumber. They can locate pipe leaks in hard-to-reach places.
Too Many Water-Based Appliances or Fixtures Used at the Same Time
Throughout the day, it’s common to use more than one water-based appliance or fixture at the same time. A sink may run simultaneously with a shower, or a washing machine may run at the same time as a dishwasher. However, two faucets running at the same time shouldn’t cause a problem.
What to Do
If possible, try to stagger your home’s water usage throughout the day. If it is not possible to do so or you are still having problems, you’ll want to contact a plumbing professional.
Main Water Shutoff Valve is Partly Closed
The main water shutoff valve controls water flow into your home. If your shutoff valve is partly closed, it reduces the water pressure, which can cause water pressure problems for your entire home.
What to Do
To fix the valve, you’ll need to locate it. It is usually on the main water line right after it enters your home. Depending on the style of valve, there may be a gate valve that opens or closes using a rotating handle, or a ball valve with a lever that has 90 degrees of movement. For the ball valve, align the handle with the water pipe. For the gate valve, turn it counterclockwise until it stops turning, then turn it the other way a quarter turn to help prevent seizing or leaks.
Water Lines Are Clogged
Over time, water lines may clog, restricting the flow of water. This may happen due to limescale or other minerals building up. If your area has hard water, mineral buildup can be more significant.
What to Do
This isn’t something you can handle on your own. You’ll need to contact a plumbing professional to inspect and potentially replace water lines. You may want to look into investing in a water softener.
Pipes Have Corroded
Over time, the pipes in your home may corrode, leading to leaks that reduce water pressure. The lifespan of a pipe can vary based on the type.
What to Do
If your home’s pipes are reaching the end of their lifespan, you’ll want to look into having them replaced. A plumbing professional will have to handle this.
Individual Water Valves Are Partly Closed
Individual water valves, such as those on showers and sinks, that are partly closed can cause low water pressure in specific places. This can happen when the water is briefly turned off but not completely turned back on. This prevents water from the main valve from properly flowing through the individual valves.
What to Do
If you can access the water valves, check to ensure they are fully open; if not, open them all the way by turning them clockwise. You can find valves beneath your sink. Access shower valves by removing the cartridge in front of them.
The Water Meter Valve isn’t Open All the Way
Local utility companies sometimes use water meter valves to measure a home’s water use. Often, a home is equipped with one closely following the main valve. If the water meter valve isn’t fully open, it could restrict water usage.
What to Do
As a closed or partially closed water meter valve can restrict water flow into your home, you’ll need to open it all the way to restore proper water flow.
Plumbing Fixtures Aren’t Working Correctly
If low water pressure is restricted to one or two fixtures, the problem may lie with them. An aerator, cartridge, or showerhead may have limestone, dirt, or rust built up in it.
What to Do
You may be able to resolve low water pressure in a shower by cleaning the shower head, as the low water pressure may be caused by limestone buildup in the shower head’s holes. A faucet aerator’s screen and other parts of it, once removed from the sink, can be cleaned using a small stiff brush, or, if the fixtures are older, they may need to be upgraded.
Water Supply Problems
Problems with your well or water supplier may cause low water pressure.
What to Do
To determine if there is a problem with the municipal water system, you’ll need to contact the water supplier to learn if there is an issue.
If your home has a well, check if the water pump has a tripped breaker or if the motor is not running correctly. If the motor doesn’t seem to be running right, you’ll want to contact a professional to take a look.
Issues with Shared Water Lines
While rare, some homes share water lines with each other from the municipal water supply. If a neighbor uses water in their home, it can decrease the water pressure in your home.
What to Do
You may be able to resolve the issue by coordinating with a neighbor. Another option is to hire a plumber to create water lines to your home from the municipal service, so you no longer have to share yours.
Branch Lines Aren’t Big Enough
Narrow branch lines can restrict the amount of water that runs to a home, resulting in low water pressure. Branch lines are pipes that connect from the main sewer line to fixtures found in your home, such as sinks and showers.
What to Do
If you believe a branch line doesn’t have the capacity needed for your home, you’ll need to contact a plumbing professional to inspect it. The plumber may recommend upgrading to larger pipes.
When to Involve a Plumber
The majority of plumbing issues require a plumbing professional. If you know what you are doing, you may be able to check water valves to ensure they are fully open and adjust a pressure regulator.
A plumber will need to handle repairing or replacing damaged or corroded pipes. You’ll want a plumber’s help for mechanical problems, such as a faulty pressure regulator or a faulty water pump motor.
Schedule a Service Appointment to Resolve Your Low Water Pressure Issues
If you’re located in McKinney, Texas, or the surrounding area, the professionals at Bewley Plumbing can help you with your low water pressure issues. Contact us at 972-562-0037 or on our website to schedule an appointment.
Additional Resources:
- How to Troubleshoot Leaky Faucets and Fixtures in McKinney
- 6 Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Water Heater in McKinney, TX
- Exploring the Hazards of Hidden Plumbing Leaks
- Winter Plumbing Tips for McKinney and Collin County Homes
- Exploring Electronic Leak Detection Technology for Plumbing – A Guide by Bewley Plumbing