The most common causes of low water pressure

The most common causes of low water pressure

The most common causes of low water pressure can range from a problem with the municipal water supply system to issues within your own home plumbing. Fortunately, an understanding of what causes low water pressure and how to identify the source is relatively straightforward.

1. Leaking Pipes

If you’re experiencing low water pressure throughout your entire house, a leak in one of your pipes may be the culprit. A slow-moving leak or siphoning action caused by a crack can significantly reduce the flow of water through other fixtures in your home. This type of issue requires professional repair services to fix properly.

2. Mineral Buildup

Another common cause lies within your own pipes and fixtures; mineral buildup slowly accumulates over time, reducing the diameter of the waterway and restricting its flow. If you notice a drop in water pressure, it’s a good idea to have your pipes flushed and inspected by an experienced plumbing professional.

3. Corroded Pipes

Over time, galvanized steel or other metals can become corroded, resulting in rust buildup that jams the flow of water through your home’s pipes. Again, this type of issue requires professional attention to remedy properly.

4. High Water Demand

Even if you don’t have any leaks or clogs in your own system, low pressure can still be caused by excessive demand on the municipal water supply lines leading into your neighborhood or apartment building. When there are too many people tapping into the same source of running water at the same time, it can reduce water pressure for everyone in that area.

5. Poor Design

In some cases, the reason for low water pressure can be attributed to inadequate design of the home’s plumbing system by an inexperienced contractor. If your house is newer and you’ve been experiencing low water pressure from the start, contact a trusted plumber at Plumber Guru from San Diego, California who can diagnose any potential problems with how your pipes are arranged and configured.

6. Faulty Valves

Malfunctioning valves in your home’s plumbing system may also contribute to low water pressure. A faulty valve could be restricting the flow of water or prematurely closing off its supply line before allowing it to travel through your home’s fixtures.

7. Water Pressure Regulator

The regulator, designed to prevent excessively high water pressure from damaging your plumbing system, may become damaged or stuck in one position over time. Have a licensed plumber inspect and repair your pressure regulator if it’s not functioning properly.

8. Leaking Faucets

Even if you don’t have any leaks elsewhere in your home, a dripping faucet can still reduce the overall flow of water coming into your house and cause a drop in water pressure at other fixtures. Make sure all of the faucets throughout your home are tightly sealed to ensure optimal performance.

9. Clogged Pipes

When small particles such as sand, dirt, and grit build up within your plumbing system, it can cause obstructions that reduce the flow of water through your house. A clog in one of your drain pipes or fixtures may be causing a drop in water pressure; to remedy this issue, you’ll need to clear out any blockages with professional plumbing services.

10. Municipal Problems

In some cases, low water pressure is caused by external issues beyond your control, such as a problem with the city’s main supply line or an interruption in service due to repairs being made to the municipal system. Contact your local water authority for more information about any potential problems affecting the area you live in.

By understanding what causes low water pressure and how to identify its source, you can take the necessary steps to address the issue and have your water pressure restored. If you’re unable to identify or fix the problem on your own, contact a trusted plumbing professional who can help diagnose and resolve any lingering issues with your home’s plumbing system.