What could be worse than expecting a long steamy shower that’s met with an unsatisfying trickle of water? Or perhaps you’re trying to wash dishes, and you can’t get enough water pressure to rinse them effectively. Low water pressure can creep up on you over many years, or it could happen overnight. Whatever the problem, you’ll want to get to the bottom of it fast. When you think about it, good water pressure is part of our quality of life. Your plumbing technician will troubleshoot different areas of your plumbing system. Before you pick up the phone to call your plumber, you might be able to complete some troubleshooting of your own. Below are some of the general areas that low water pressure will affect and will most often require expert assistance from a plumber.
Did You Wake Up One Morning To Low Water Pressure?
If you woke up one morning to low water pressure, then it’s time to start asking neighbors if they have the same problem. If they do have the same issue, you may not need a plumber. First, you’ll need to call your municipal water district to update you about malfunctions with your municipal water supply. In some cases, a water main may break, causing everyone in the neighborhood to have low water pressure. You could also contribute it to construction in the area, especially if it’s only affected during specific times.
Your Home’s Pressure Regulator Is Failing
A pressure regulator is a device that attaches to a home’s main incoming water supply. Its purpose is to regulate incoming water to a manageable level for appliances and fixtures. The normal water pressure of a home is between 45-65 psi. If your pressure exceeds 80 psi, state law requires you have one. High water pressure may seem like a luxury, but over time it could wreak havoc on pipes. The life expectancy of your water regulator is 10-15 years before it needs replacing. Most homes have a pressure regulator. If the regulator fails, you might notice a sudden spike or decrease in your home’s water pressure. Your plumbing professional will test for a broken water pressure regulator.
A Shut Off Valve Is Partially Closed
Check both your water main shut-off valve and the water meter valve to ensure that they are both fully open. These valves can’t exactly close themselves, but if you’ve recently had work done to your home, you may have partially closed it. This is more common than you think. You can usually locate the home shut-off valve in the garage if the valve gets bumped, or even if a child tugs on it, it could slightly close. You can avoid a trip charge from your plumber by making sure your shut-off valve is wide open.
Clogged Fixtures Can Cause Low Water Pressure
If the water pressure problem seems localized to just one fixture, then hard water mineral deposits have built up inside the aerator or showerhead. There might also be a clog in the line leading directly to that fixture. If it’s a showerhead, you can soak it in a vinegar solution overnight and remove the mineral deposits the next day. Aerators cost less than ten dollars, so it’s best to replace them altogether. If that doesn’t work, call a plumber to have the line checked.
Your Water Heater Is Malfunctioning
If the low-pressure problem only affects your hot water supply, the problem may be originating with your water heater. Ensure that the shut-off valve to the tank is fully open. If that doesn’t fix the problem, call your plumbing expert for help.
Your Pipes Are Old And Restricted By Mineral Deposits
Over time, old pipes water can become restricted by calcium and other mineral deposits found in hard water. The problem usually occurs in older homes that are over 40 years old. It’s not something that happens overnight, but you’ll see a gradual reduction in water pressure over many years. Copper pipes have a life expectancy of 40-60 years. Have your pipes inspected by a plumbing professional.
Your Plumbing Technician Will Precisely Locate The Problem
After you have completed any troubleshooting on your own, then it’s time to call your Big B’s Plumbing technician to precisely locate the problem. We only use the latest plumbing techniques and technologies. We’re an accredited A+ rated plumbing company with the Better Business Bureau.
