We’ve all experienced that blissful moment of entering the perfect hot shower that feels like pure luxury. The water temperature is just right, there are no interruptions, and the water pressure is perfect. On the flip side, few things are more exasperating than struggling with inadequate water pressure in your bathtub faucet or showerhead while trying to rinse the conditioner out of your hair.

Low water pressure in house can be caused by several factors, such as a closed or blocked water meter valve, mineral buildup clogging pipes, corroded pipes, or even a crack in the main city supply pipe leading to your home. Fortunately, there are simple ways to diagnose and address this issue, such as restoring proper water pressure throughout your house.

What Does It Mean When Water Pressure Is Low?

The water pressure in your home is measured in pounds per square inch (PSI). The ideal pressure for residential properties is typically between 40 and 60 PSI, although this can vary depending on location. The normal PSI range for a home’s pipe system is between 30 and 80. 

When you turn on the tap and don’t get the pressure you’re expecting, it may mean that you don’t have enough water coming into your pipes, a clog somewhere in your system, or a leak robbing you of your pressure. Determining which of these issues applies to you and what’s causing it is the first step in fixing the problem.

If you notice water pressure low in house suddenly, it’s important to identify and address the underlying cause. Low water pressure can be caused by various factors, both within and outside of your home’s plumbing system. By understanding the common causes, you can take the necessary steps to restore proper water pressure throughout your home.

What Are the Common Causes of Low Water Pressure in a House?

Poor water pressure is caused by factors both internal and external to your home. Issues with your municipal water supply, such as a broken water main, cause low water pressure— there’s nothing you can do about this except wait for your water company to resolve the problem. However, when low water pressure originates from an issue specific to your home, such as a water pipe or your pressure regulator failing, plumbing repairs can correct the problem.

1. Clogged Pipes

Debris, mineral deposits, or rust can build up inside pipes, restricting water flow and causing low water pressure. This is a common issue, especially in older homes with outdated plumbing. Over time, these buildups can significantly reduce the pipe’s diameter, impeding the water’s ability to flow freely. You may need to have the pipes professionally cleaned or replaced to fix this.

Fortunately, you can try some DIY steps first, such as using vinegar and baking soda solution to help dissolve mineral buildup or snaking the pipes to remove any blockages. If these methods don’t work, it’s best to call in a plumber who can properly inspect and clean or replace the affected pipes.

2. Faulty Pressure Regulator

A malfunctioning pressure regulator can cause inconsistent or low water pressure throughout your home. The pressure regulator maintains the appropriate water pressure by limiting the flow from the main supply line. If the regulator is not functioning correctly, it can restrict the water pressure, leading to low flow at your faucets and showerheads.

A plumber can often replace a faulty pressure regulator. They may also need to adjust the pressure setting to ensure optimal water pressure in your home’s plumbing system.

3. Leaking Pipes

Leaks in the plumbing system can divert water away from fixtures, reducing pressure at the taps and showerheads. Even a small leak can significantly impact the overall water pressure in your home. Identifying and repairing any leaks should be a top priority when dealing with low water pressure.

Inspect your home for any visible signs of leaks, such as damp spots or water stains on walls or ceilings. You can also listen for the sound of running water or use a water meter to detect any unusual spikes in usage that could indicate a hidden leak. Once identified, a professional plumber should repair the leaks to restore proper water pressure.

4. Corroded Plumbing

Over time, pipes can corrode, leading to blockages and reduced water pressure. This is particularly common in older homes with outdated plumbing systems. As the pipes deteriorate, they can become narrower, restricting the water flow and resulting in decreased pressure.

If you suspect that corroded plumbing is the cause of your low water pressure, it’s best to have a professional plumber inspect your home’s pipes and determine the extent of the damage. In some cases, replacing the affected pipes may be the only solution to restore adequate water pressure.

5. Mineral Buildup

Hard water can cause mineral deposits to accumulate in pipes and fixtures, reducing water flow and pressure. These mineral buildup, often consisting of calcium and limescale, can gradually clog the internal diameter of the pipes, restricting the water’s ability to flow freely.

To address mineral buildup, use a chemical descaler or have your pipes professionally cleaned. Installing a water softener can also help prevent future mineral accumulation, improving water pressure over time.

6. Partially Closed Shut-off Valve

The main shut-off valve or water meter valve may not be fully open, reducing water pressure. This is an easily overlooked issue, as the valve may have been partially closed during a previous plumbing repair or maintenance task.

To check for this, locate the main shut-off valve, typically near the water meter, and ensure it is fully open. If the valve is parclosed, simply turn it counterclockwise to open restoring should restore proper water pressure throughout your home.

7. Municipal Water Supply Issues

Problems with the local water supply can also affect the pressure in your home. If the municipal water system is experiencing issues, such as a broken water main or ongoing construction, it can temporarily reduce the water pressure available to your home.

In these cases, the solution is out of your control, and you’ll need to wait for your local water utility to resolve the problem. You can contact them to inquire about the issue and get an estimate of when the water pressure should be restored.

8. High Water Demand

Using multiple water-using appliances simultaneously can reduce overall water pressure. When multiple fixtures or appliances, such as showers, washing machines, and dishwashers, are running simultaneously, the water demand can exceed the capacity of your home’s plumbing system, resulting in lower water pressure.

To mitigate the impact of high water demand, try to avoid running multiple high-water-usage appliances concurrently. Stagger the usage of these devices or encourage family members to be mindful of water usage to prevent pressure drops.

9. Shared Supply Lines

If your water supply is shared with other units or homes, usage in other areas can cause a drop in pressure. In multi-unit buildings or shared plumbing systems, the water pressure in your home may be influenced by the water usage of your neighbors.

In this case, there may be little you can do as an individual homeowner to address the low water pressure. However, you can discuss the issue with your neighbors or the building management to see if there are any solutions, such as installing a booster pump or upgrading the shared plumbing system.

When to Call a Plumber?

If you notice low water pressure in your home, it’s best to call a professional plumber to diagnose and address the issue. A skilled plumber can evaluate the causes of the low water pressure and recommend the appropriate solutions, whether clearing a clogged pipe, replacing a faulty pressure regulator, or upgrading the overall plumbing system.

At TaskPro, our licensed plumbers have the expertise to identify the root cause of low water pressure and provide effective, long-lasting solutions. We’ll walk you through the process, explain the necessary plumbing repairs, and ensure your home’s water pressure is restored to optimal levels.

For emergency plumbing services or to schedule an appointment, contact TaskPro today. We’re here to help you get your water pressure back on track and maintain a comfortable, functional plumbing system in your home.

FAQs

Why is my water pressure so low all of a sudden?

If you notice a sudden, drastic decrease in water pressure from just one or two fixtures, check for leaks. Walk around the house and listen for bubbles, hisses, or drips in the walls. Check for any suspicious damp spots, and see if there are puddles anywhere. A sudden drop in water pressure is often a sign of a leak in your plumbing system that diverts water away from the fixtures.

How do I check my water pressure without a gauge?

To test the water pressure in your taps:

1. Get yourself a water jug between one and two liters in size and a stopwatch.
2. Put the jug under a tap, turn it on, and take six seconds.
3. Turn your tap off.
4. Measure the amount of water collected in the jug. If you collected less than a liter of water in six seconds, your water pressure is likely too low and may need to be addressed.

Can I use a pump to increase water pressure?

Yes, residential booster pumps can increase water pressure in your home’s faucets and showerheads. If the low water pressure is due to issues within your home’s plumbing system, such as a malfunctioning pressure regulator or corroded pipes, a booster pump can effectively restore proper water pressure. However, it’s important to have a professional plumber assess your specific situation and recommend the appropriate type and size of booster pump for your home.