We live in a fast-paced world, which means we want everything done as quickly and conveniently as possible. Believe it or not, this also applies to the water pressure in your home. Imagine trying to rinse dishes or wash your hands in the sink while the water trickles out slowly. It can be frustrating trying to fill the bathtub or take a shower with the water coming out ever so slowly.
The good news is, if you’re dealing with low water pressure in your home, it’s rarely ever a serious plumbing issue. But before you contact your local plumbing services, let’s look at why you may be experiencing low water pressure in your home.
The Main Shutoff or Water Meter Valve Is Not Fully Open
The main shutoff valve is the point of entry for city water coming into your home. It will have a handle shaped like a wheel or a lever and is usually located in your basement or an exterior wall of your home. If the main shutoff valve isn’t open all the way, then this will explain the low pressure in your home.
Normally, this happens when fixing plumbing problems because the valve is shut off to block the water supply in your home. If the valve is not returned to its original position, then the water pressure in your home will be poor. Fortunately, his is a quick fix. Simply turn the wheel handle counterclockwise as far as it will go, or make sure the lever is parallel with the pipes, depending on the type of handle on your main shutoff valve.
But if the problem is caused by a water meter valve that’s not fully open, you may need to contact your local water department. Unlike the main shutoff valve, which you have full control of, the water meter valve is the property of the city. To check if the water meter valve is fully open, go where the water meter is located. The valve needs to be fully parallel with the water pipes to ensure the right water pressure.
Clogging Problems
As mentioned before, in most instances, low water pressure doesn’t always signal a big plumbing problem. For instance, the issue could be something as simple as a clogged aerator screen. The problem is usually isolated to one or two faucets, so it’s easy to diagnose. You can easily resolve this by cleaning the aerator screen, so the tiny holes are no longer blocked, replacing it if it’s no longer usable.
On the other hand, if your low water pressure is caused by clogged pipes, then the issue is serious enough to warrant a call to the local plumber. If there’s a clog in the water pipes, then water flow will be impeded. This can be dangerous because when water builds up in one area, the pressure in your pipes also builds up, and your pipes may burst.
Faulty Water Pressure Regulator
Too much water pressure is not always a good thing, which is why most homes have a water pressure regulator. This is a plumbing valve that lowers the water pressure to a safe level as it flows from the main water line into your home. However, if the water pressure valve is malfunctioning, your water pressure will become too reduced.
All the faucets and water outlets in your home will have low pressure. The best way to get the issue fixed is by contacting a professional local plumbing service. That’s because the repair will require shutting off the water meter valve, which should only be handled by an expert.
Plumbing Leaks
Leaks reduce the flow of water into your home and will also cause damage wherever the leak occurs. For instance, leaks within your plumbing can result in water stains on walls or ceilings and flooding on the floor. A leak will also increase your water usage and bills.
While on the subject of increased water consumption, consider replacing your showerheads and faucets if they predate 1992. That’s because these types of showerheads and faucets use more than twice the amount of water as new, modern ones.
Now that you know the common reasons behind low water pressure in your home, consider getting in touch with the best local plumbing service near you. Our professionals will help you troubleshoot the problem. If you want to eliminate problems with poor water pressure in your home, we can also install a water pressure booster designed to improve water pressure and flow in your home.