7 Causes of Low Water Pressure

7 Causes of Low Water Pressure

Low water pressure is a common problem in every household – especially homes with moody teenagers known to take long showers and limitless bathroom time…but I digress. The truth is, your dishwasher and bathroom plumbing pull from the same water supply and water heater. Though you’re always bound to experience low pressure when multiple water sources are being used at the same time, some low water pressure problems can be avoided. Here are a few of the most common causes of low water pressure:

 

  1. Water Leaks

There is nothing fun about hidden leaks. They often result in higher water bills and water damage. Low water pressure probably isn’t at the top of your list if that’s the case. But the leak might instead be caused by a break in your city/municipality water main – leading to reduced water pressure until it’s repaired. If you suspect a water main leak, contact your city immediately.

  1. Peak Periods

Your entire home is hooked up to the same local/neighborhood water supply. Low water pressure isn’t always abnormal during peak usage hours, especially in older or overloaded water systems like those in Northwest Georgia. If your water pressure issue seems to come and go, it could be a result of your household or neighborhood’s greater-than-average water usage at that time. Try switching up your schedule to see if your water pressure improves.

  1. Mineral Buildup

Most faucets and shower heads have aerator screens that make use less water and make the flow feel softer. Minerals sometimes build up in these screens, reducing the water pressure of the plumbing fixture. If your water pressure problem is limited to just one fixture, consider taking apart and cleaning the aerator screen. You might also consider calling the plumbing experts at CityWIDE to inspect the quality of your pipes. Over time, pipes can corrode and may need to be replaced in order to restore adequate water flow.

  1. Geographical Location & Elevation

The farther you are from a water treatment facility, water tower or any pumping mechanisms your municipality has in place, the less net water pressure you will have. The impact of this can be reduced or increased depending on your elevation. If your house is below the average elevation for your area, you’ll likely recover any water pressure lost from distance. If your house is above the average elevation for your area, you’ll likely notice less pressure.

  1. Partially Closed Main Shut-Off Valves

The last time your main shut-off valve was used, it may not have been reopened all the way. Close your valve completely and then reopen it fully to see if that increases your water pressure.

  1. Water Filters / Softeners

Over time, water filters and softeners can malfunction and lower household water pressure. In many cases, the solution is to replace whatever filter the unit uses. In other more rare cases, the entire unit itself needs to be replaced. Try getting a new filter first, and if that doesn’t solve the problem, consider replacing the entire water filter / softener unit with a new one.

  1. Water Conserving (Low-Flow) Devices

Everyone wants to be environmentally friendly when possible. But if you’re sacrificing your water pressure to do so, it may not be worth the sacrifice. Low-flow faucets and showerheads limit the amount of water that passes through. You might consider purchasing a higher efficiency low-flow option or replacing with a standard faucet or showerhead. 

low-flow faucets and showerheads allow less water to pass through, creating less water pressure.

If you still aren’t sure what’s causing your low water pressure, call the plumbing experts at CityWIDE at 770-872-0867 or schedule service online for fast, reliable service.