Troubleshooting Low Water Pressure In Your Plumbing
Low water pressure can be a frustrating plumbing problem that can lead to your faucets producing weak streams of water. This can be very annoying, especially when showering or hosing down your sidewalk or siding. Luckily, the issue is often easy to diagnose and fix. Read on for common causes of low water pressure in your home and how you can solve them.
Water leaks
Cracks in your plumbing can result in leaks that can in turn affect the pressure in your pipes significantly. Leaks are often hard to detect, so be sure to check under your kitchen cabinet, in your basement, or under your bathroom sink for signs of water damage.
You can also detect a leak behind your walls by checking for peeling drywall or dull spots on the paint. if you still can't find any signs of leaks, close your main water valve and record the reading on your meter. Keep the valve closed for a few hours and then check the meter reading again. If there is a difference in the reading, this indicates water use and the presence of a leak somewhere in the plumbing.
Be sure to call in your plumber to seal any plumbing leaks so as to restore proper water pressure and prevent damage to your flooring/furniture or the risk of mold growth in your home.
Scum buildup
Scum and dirt particles can clog up your pipes, restricting the flow of water in your plumbing system. If you notice low water pressure in just one tap, you are probably dealing with corroded piping or mineral deposits inside the faucet. To fix the issue, consider disassembling the faucet to clear out any deposits in there with a sharp object.
You can also check the aerator or flow restrictor for clogging and clean it with warm water to remove scum and dirt. If the scum deposits are particularly stubborn, soak the parts overnight in a vinegar solution to loosen up the gunk. For corroded faucet parts or flow restrictors, you will likely have to call in a plumber to make replacements.
Low water supply
In some cases, low water pressure can simply be caused by a main water valve that isn't fully open, resulting in restricted water supply to your home. Be sure to check that the valve is fully open and not corroded or clogged by deposits.
If you share a water supply line with a neighbor and notice fluctuating water pressure during times of high use, you may need to have a plumber connect your home with its own supply line.