Identifying and Fixing the Causes of Low Water Pressure in the Home

The causes of low water pressure in the home are many, and the cure can range from simple point source fixes to more complex water supply upgrades. The following are some helpful tips to diagnose and fix some of the most common causes of reduced water flow in the home.

Obstructed Faucet Aerators

Hard water and debris can cause faucet aerators to become dirty and clogged over time, eventually restricting the flow of water. By regularly removing and cleaning the faucet aerator screens you can keep the water flowing freely. Vinegar can be used to dissolve mineral deposits on faucet aerators and shower heads. Simply submerge them overnight to dissolve the mineral deposits.

Low-Flow Shower Heads

If your shower head has a low-flow fixture in place, try swapping it out with a regular shower head fixture to increase the flow of water. Inexpensive, high-pressure shower heads are also available that can make your shower flow better.

Check the Water Supply Valves

If the water supply valve in your home has recently been shut off, it may not have been returned to the fully opened position. Check to ensure it is fully opened.

Advanced Solutions For Low Water Pressure

If you’ve checked the techniques above to increase your home’s water pressure without success, ABC Southwest can help with more problematic water pressure problems.

One solution is a residential water pressure booster. A water pressure booster is a supplementary water pump that works with your home’s existing water supply to increase water pressure.

Water Leaks

ABC Southwest can also help find more serious sources of low water pressure. If you have a water pipe that is leaking, it will affect the water pressure in your house significantly– and increase your water bill. Try turning off the water supply both inside and outside your home, then check your water meter. Check the water meter once more a couple hours later to determine if the water usage has increased. If so, you probably have a leak that needs to be located and repaired.

Water Supply Main Pipe

Another option is to increase the size of the main pipe supplying water to your house. See if you can determine what type of water pipes you have in the home and running to your water meter. Pipe size is an important factor in the amount of water pressure you’ll get in your home. The larger the pipes, the more the water pressure, so you may want to consider increasing the size of the main pipe servicing your house.

Have questions about low water pressure in your home? Call ABC Southwest Air Conditioning and Plumbing, we’re here to help.