The most common reason for low water pressure is aclogged sink aerator.
A change in pressure can also happen suddenly and without warning.
Keep reading to discover the reasons for low water pressure in your home and how to address the situation.
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This simple equipment can attach directly to the hose spigot outside the home.
After screwing the test gauge onto the spigot, turn the valve on and check the reading.
Most homes operate between 30 and 80 psi.
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Limescale and other mineral buildup can be more significant in areas with hard water.
Contact a plumber to inspect and possibly replace the water lines.
Also, considerinvesting in a water softenerto help prevent this issue.
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Corroded Pipes
Generally, galvanized steel lines start to corrode after about 20 years.
Copper pipes last over 50 years, while brass pipes are fine for about 40 to 70 years.
This requires a plumber’s expertise.
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If the pressure regulator is not set correctly, it could restrict the water flow more than necessary.
How to fix it:Adjust the pressure setting or hire a plumber.
A plumber may need to replace the regulator.
How to fix it:If you suspect leaking pipes are causing low water pressure, take immediate action.
Inspect any visible water lines to locate the source of the leak.
If you cannot find the leak, contact a plumber to patch up the issue.
The more appliances that use water simultaneously, the more the home’s available water is tapped.
How to fix it:One or two faucets running simultaneously shouldn’t affect the water pressure.
The easiest way to address this problem is to stagger the household’s water needs throughout the day.
The valve is usually located on the main water line immediately after the water line enters the home.
How to fix it:Find the valve.
Push the handle to align with the water pipe to open a ball valve.
You’ll need to remove the cartridge to jump into the valves.
Many houses have a water meter located right after the main valve.
The local utility uses this to measure the home’s water use.
How to fix it:Generally, a water meter isolation valve is installed after the water meter.
If the water meter valve is partially closed, the flow of water into the home will be restricted.
Find the valve, check it, and open it if it has been closedfully or partially.
A faucet aerator reduces the volume of water without changing the pressure.
Tip
Try resolving the water pressure problem bycleaning the aeratorsin your faucets and then reinstalling them.
However, this solution might not work for older fixtures thatneed to be upgraded.
Water Supply Issues
Sometimes, the water supplier or your water well may have problems.
If unsuccessful, contact a plumber specializing in well systems to assess the situation.
Shared Water Lines
Some homes may share one line of water from the municipal water supply.
When available water is divided among multiple households, it results in low water pressure.
This ensures the new line runs only to your home.
A pipe replacement fix is costly but it is a more permanent solution.
These are the pipes that come off the main water line after entering the home.
This supply line is what gets distributed to appliances and plumbing fixtures.
If you have a home well, check the water pump is functioning correctly.
Also, quickly inspect the house to see if you notice any leaks.
Most low water pressure problems that affect the whole house are due to a partially closed valve.
First, find out if the water pressure issue affects only one or all the faucets.
Next, check the main water valve to ensure it’s fully open.
Normal house pressure is usually between 30 to 80 psi.
