Low water pressure is a common nuisance for many homeowners. Whether you’re cleaning the dishes, taking a shower, or washing your hands — low water pressure can make the task difficult and ruin your experience. If you don’t find the true source of the problem, this issue will probably keep getting worse for you. Your water may even slow all the way down to the tiniest trickle. With this in mind, we’ve gathered a list of some common causes of low water pressure. 

Water Supplier is Experiencing Issues

Before you decide to spend the time and effort figuring out the cause of your water pressure problem, ask your neighbors if they are experiencing anything similar. Chances are, if they are experiencing the same thing, it's not happening specifically to your home. 

Contact your water supplier directly and see if there is any maintenance or new construction taking place near you. If that’s the case, you will have to hold tight until their work is completed.

Main Shut Off Valve Is Not Open All The Way

Your home’s main shutoff valve can be found inside your home where the main water supply line connects to your internal plumbing system, often in a utility closet or in the basement. Like the water meter valve, the main shutoff valve can sometimes be left partially closed after plumbing work has been done.

There are two different types of main shutoff valves that may be present in your home: a ball valve and a gate valve. A ball valve has a lever, which must be parallel to the pipe to ensure the valve is fully open. A gate valve has a wheel handle, which must be turned all the way to the left in a counterclockwise direction for the valve to open entirely.

Partially Opened Water Meter Valve

Similar to the main shut off valve, the water meter valve controls the water intake toward your home. This valve belongs to the city and is attached to a system that monitors water usage. If you have recently had work done in your home and as a result are noticing a reduction in water pressure, you may want to contact your water company. Sometimes the valve will be left partially open after the work was completed and someone will need to come in and open it completely.

Corroded Pipes

If you live in an older home, low water pressure can also be a result of corrosion and scale buildup in old pipes which can restrict water flow in your home’s plumbing system over time.
Since this is a problem that develops slowly over the years, you may not notice any significant difference in water pressure until the corrosion becomes severe, at which point your problem will likely get worse quickly.
 
Corroded pipes are the most serious cause of low water pressure. The only solution for corroded pipes is to perform an entire re-pipe of the system. This is the only way to resolve this problem. Typically, the best option available for re-piping in both cost and installation is to use PEX tubing over copper piping.

Pressure Regulator is Failing

Not all plumbing systems are equipped with a pressure regulator. A regulator stabilizes the water pressure in your home and keeps it within a set range. If the regulator is broken or failing, your settings could be compromised, resulting in too-high or too-low water pressure. If the regulator's the culprit, you'll likely notice a sudden drop in water pressure as opposed to a gradual loss that's typical with some other problems. Replacing a pressure regulator can be a complicated job so unless you're a skilled DIYer, it's a good idea to call in the pros.

Pipes are Clogged

Another cause of low hot water pressure could be a clog somewhere in your plumbing system. In order to determine if the cause of your low water pressure is a clogged pipe, you’ll need to call in a professional. Using video camera technology, a licensed plumber can help you assess the situation and determine the right solution.

Clogged plumbing fixtures can also weaken water pressure. Rust and limestone buildup on shower heads and faucets can interfere with water flow as well as reduce water quality. If only one or two fixtures are experiencing low water pressure, this buildup is likely to blame. Check the affected fixtures to make sure openings are clean and clear of any obstructions. If you find a clogged faucet or shower head, clean it out or replace it with a newer model. 

We Can Help with Low Water Pressure

Low water pressure can turn even the simplest tasks into annoyances. If you've tried to locate the problem yourself but have been unable to pinpoint it, we're here to help. In any event, the earlier you get to the bottom of it, the less chance there is of further damage.

To learn more or to schedule a plumbing inspection in your home, give Duncan Plumbing Solutions a call at 972-937-0040 or contact us online today.