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When you find your water pressure is lower than usual, the first thing to do is check other faucets. If the issues are present in your whole house, you need to check your neighbors to see if it is just your house or the entire neighborhood. If it is just your house, there are a few things you can check before calling a professional.
If your neighbors are experiencing the same problems, the problem most likely comes from the water supplier. Probably, your water supplier is experiencing technical issues, which means the water pressure will go back to normal eventually. However, it can also happen due to a change of regulation by the government.
The problem is probably with your pump if you have a private well. In this case, you should check if the power is still on and if the pump is working correctly. If everything seems in order, you might need to call a professional to look at your pump.
What if the problem only happens at your house or only on one faucet? Here are the possible explanations:
- Your Valve Is Not Fully Open
The most straightforward reason for low water pressure is that the main shutoff valve is only partially open; thus, water can’t fully flow through. If this valve is already fully open, check the water meter valve. That one might be partially open as well. Your water pressure should be back to normal once you readjust the valve to be fully open.
If the issue persists, it might be due to a buildup of mineral deposits in the pipes. This is especially common in areas with hard water. The minerals can cause clogs that restrict water flow. You can try using a vinegar and water solution to break up the deposits to fix this. Simply mix equal parts vinegar and water and pour it down the affected drain. Let it sit for a few hours before flushing with hot water.
Suppose you have ruled out all of the above potential causes, and your water pressure is still low. In that case, the municipal water supply might be an issue. In this case, you will need to contact your local water authority to resolve the issue.
- Pressure Regulator Is Failing
Not every house has a pressure regulator. But if there is one on your property, there is a possibility that the device fails to work correctly. So you might need to run a pressure test to see if it is still working. And if your device turns out to be at fault, it is better to call for a professional plumbing service to replace it. The task may look simple, but improper installation may lead to severe problems.
If you’re not sure whether or not your home has a pressure regulator, the best way to find out is to ask your plumber. They will be able to inspect your plumbing system and let you know for sure. In most cases, pressure regulators are located near your home’s main water shutoff valve.
- Pipework Is Leaking
Leaking pipework is alarming because a small leak will not be enough to affect the water pressure. Also, leaking pipes can get worse very quickly. Not to mention that there are risks of your property getting damaged. In this case, you should turn off the main valve and get the leak fixed as soon as possible.
Turning off the main valve may not be enough if you have a more extensive leak. You should also call a professional to help you fix the problem. Depending on the severity of the leak, the plumber will either repair or replace the pipe.
It is important to get leaks fixed as soon as possible because they can cause a lot of damage to your property. If left unchecked, a small leak can quickly turn into a big problem. So, if you think you might have a leak, don’t hesitate to call a professional for help.
- Pipework Is Clogged
A clog in the pipe may also block the water flow, hence the low water pressure. Unfortunately, it is not easy to locate where the clog is, let alone how to fix it. Therefore, you need to call a professional service. Don’t try to DIY it using hot water, a chemical drain cleaner, or a hanger. The wrong technique of unclogging might do more harm than good.
- Pipework Is Corroded
Not everybody realized that pipes have expiration dates, especially the galvanized steel ones. So if your house is rather old, there are chances that your pipes are corroded already. The corrosion particles may build up and cause a clog, lowering the water pressure.
One way to check if your pipes are already corroded is by looking at the water pressure. If it has decreased significantly, it might be time to replace your pipes. Another way to tell is by looking at the pipes themselves. If they are already starting to rust, it is probably time for a change.
If you are experiencing any of these problems, it is time to replace your galvanized steel pipes. Although they may be a bit more expensive, they will last much longer and save you from many headaches in the future.
It might be exhausting to inspect your house to find the culprit of the low water pressure problem, let alone fix it for good. Fortunately, many professional plumbing companies are ready to help you around the clock. As long as you choose a reputable one, you can sit back and relax until they inform you that the issue is all settled.
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