Owning a home comes with a lot of responsibility. Things will break down in the home that need immediate repairs. Knowing how to make those repairs is ideal for any homeowner. Spending money on every little fix could become annoying and costly. Plumbing issues are just one area in your home that often proves problematic. In some cases, water pressure can go up and down. Wondering how to fix low water pressure? There are a variety of areas to troubleshoot when it comes to fixing water pressure.
Let’s take a look below as to why your water pressure might need fixing.
What Is Water Pressure?
The meaning of water pressure is as it sounds. The force that pushes water through your plumbing. This is created by the altitude or elevation of your pipes. Keep in mind that water pressure can be regulated and in some cases, the municipality will use a pump or pressure station to force the water to your home’s plumbing line. Most homes will average between 40 and 60 psi in their plumbing. However, some residences will experience between 30 and 80 psi, depending on where you live.
Why Is My Water Pressure Low?
Believe it or not, there are a variety of common causes of low water pressure. Let’s take a look below at what those reasons might be.
- Partially closed valve – Check the main water shutoff valve and the shutoff valve by the water meter to ensure that they are both open all the ways.
- Debris in pipes – When debris gets into your pipes it can start to clog or slow down the water flow in your plumbing. The water has to work harder to push through the pipes and by the time it reaches the faucet, the pressure could be much lower.
- Corroded water lines – As your water lines become corroded they collect sediment. The sediment will then pile up and create a blockage. This will substantially slow the water pressure down. Check the type of pipes as each type will have a varying effect. Galvanized steel pipes are likely going to break down as any metal would.
- Leaking pipes – When there are cracks or leaks in the pipes, the water pressure drops. Air will get into the water line due to the leak and reduce the water pressure in the line.
- Failed water pressure regulator – The water pressure regulator is meant to allow you to increase or decrease your water pressure. If the regulator breaks down, you will notice a decrease in water pressure.
- Faulty fixtures – When the internal core of the faucet fixture or the aerator gets clogged and calcified, the water pressure flow will decrease. It is important to remove the aerator first and clean it. If that doesn’t work, replace the plumbing fixture.
Keep in mind, water pressure issues can involve a variety of scenarios. The home’s water pressure could be 50 psi or pounds per square inch (psi) and need a boost. Install a water pressure booster to solve some water pressure problems.
Other Recommended Maintenance
Now that you know how to fix low water pressure in your home you can read up on how to remove a hair clog from your bathroom faucet. This is just one possible reason for your water pressure to be low.
Next, if you have the tools to adjust your water pressure regulator, this too could be a cause of low water pressure. Reading up on how to make this adjustment is important before attempting any fix.
Lastly, knowing where your water meter is allows you to read the water meter to determine why your water pressure might be low. Knowing how to read the water meter is just as important.
When Do I Call A Professional?
Dealing with plumbing issues is not the most exciting part of owning a home. In many cases, you will need to call a local master plumber to assist. Additionally, reach out to your local home inspection team. Additionally, they can conduct a sewer scope of your plumbing system. Also, they can recommend a reputable master plumber who is experienced in solving your low water pressure situation.
Conclusion
Hiring a professionally licensed master plumber is necessary if you need certain plumbing parts replaced or repaired. Also, it isn’t recommended that you replace a water pressure regulator or even your water heater if those go bad. Consequently, it is best to hire a master plumber. Additionally, call on your local home inspection team to determine what the real issue is. Reach out to ACE Preferred Inspections for a home inspection in the low country of South Carolina.
