You’re finally home after work and you turn on the shower but instead, a sad trickle comes out of the shower head. The last thing you want at the end of the day is the unfortunate problem of low water pressure. When it becomes a problem in your house, dishes start piling up and you’re unable to use the sink as usual. A common distressed service call that we receive is low water pressure. Today we’ll share the causes of low water pressure in the house. Additionally, some possible ways to tackle the problem on your own, if you choose to do so, before calling our plumbers for an SOS.
What is Water Pressure?
Water pressure may be taken for granted. When we’re able to wash our hands, dishes, and bodies, everything is well in the house. Once the water pressure is low or non-existence, it’s a catastrophe!
Water pressure is liquid that moves through pipes and faucets by force. In most residential homes in British Columbia, the water supply system up to your property is maintained by the city. You can see this easy-to-understand chart to determine whether you need to call the City water service crew or a plumber.
If you want to get into the nitty gritty of water pressure, The Spruce has a comprehensive guide for you right here.
Telltale Signs of Low Water Pressure
Regular maintenance often mitigates plumbing problems like this. Here are some telltale signs of why you may be experiencing low water pressure:
- No water flowing from taps or appliances: Call your local plumber right away.
- Dribbling or weak water flow: Commonly noticed in taps, showers, and toilets. The faucet water flow is weak. Possibly the bath or toilet is slow/struggling to fill up.
- Appliances not performing optimally: You’ll notice significant differences in dishwashers and washing machines.
- Unable to nourish your outdoor landscaping: Water may be coming out of the hose or sprinkler system as a weak stream.
- Higher than usual water bills: Appliances may be working extra hard to keep up with your water usage.
Having low water pressure is inconvenient and possibly hazardous to your health. Additionally, by neglecting to find the root of the problem, you may be on your way to incurring damages to your home. Stagnant water in the pipes can increase the chances of bacterial growth and contamination in the water supply.
Possible Causes of Low Water Pressure in the House
There are several factors as to why the water pressure is low in your house. Let’s uncover some of the potential causes:
- The main water shut-off valve isn’t fully open
- Clogged pipes: You may have sediment or other obstructions built up in the pipes.
- Potential leaky pipe(s): Before the water can reach your faucet, you may have water leaking out of the pipe.
- Pipe(s) need repair/maintenance: It’s possible that your pipes are corroded and need some upkeep.
- Overloading water supply: You may want to look into how much water use is too much for your house. If you have laneways and multiple households using the same water supply, it would be wise to know how much water use is too much.
- Faulty pressure regulator: If you have a water pressure gauge, check the water pressure reading. If you don’t have one or don’t feel confident, call your local plumber.
- Possibly an appliance issue: If you’re only noticing low water pressure in a single appliance, it may be an appliance issue. If this is the case, contact your appliance company to get it serviced.
- Malfunctioning pump or tank: Those who have a well or pump system may experience low water pressure due to malfunction. You’ll need to get an inspection from your local plumber to diagnose it.
Since there is a multitude of factors that are affecting your water pressure, calling a plumber may be the most efficient and safest way of getting to the root of the problem. Get it diagnosed and dealt with quickly so you have sufficient water to have a relaxing bath at the end of your busy day.
What Do You Do If Your Water Pressure is Low?
Whether you’re looking to DIY this issue or hire a plumber to get it done efficiently, here are some things you can double-check:
- Inspect your entire home for possible leaks: Look around appliances, toilets, sinks, pipes, and spouts.
- Do you have clogged pipes?: If you’re noticing slow-draining basins, you may have a clogged pipe.
- Clean out your aerator: Minerals and debris can build up, thereby causing low water pressure.
- Ask around your neighbourhood: If there are other households experiencing low water pressure, there may be a problem with your municipal water supply.
- Adjust pressure-reducing valve: If you have one in your home, look for the instructions to adjust the water pressure control.
Wrap It Up
In closing, low water pressure can be caused by numerous factors. In order to reduce the chances of having low water pressure, regular maintenance of your plumbing systems is a great way to avoid bigger problems. Having no water flowing, the inability to take a shower, or flush the toilet are emergency situations for most households. The proper water pressure level is important to you, your household, and the tenant’s peace of mind. Avoid low water pressure by performing regular maintenance and upkeep in your house.