Whether it’s the shower or the kitchen sink, few things are as annoying as turning on a faucet and getting a trickle instead of a healthy flow of water. Not only is low water pressure a nuisance it could be an indication of more serious plumbing issues that need to be addressed. Sometimes, depending on your handyman skills, you may be able to correct the situation yourself. otherwise, you may have to rely on a professional. Here are 3 reasons your water pressure might be low.
Buildup In Pipes
Over time mineral deposits left behind by water can greatly reduce the diameter of your pipes, restricting the flow of water. While this buildup doesn’t pose a health risk it will continue to cause low water pressure until it is resolved. The good news is that it’s not always necessary to replace the pipes. Chemicals can often be used to break up the deposits and clean things out. Removing showerheads and faucets and giving them a thorough cleaning may also correct the problem. If neither of these measures takes care of the issue then it may time to call a plumber.
Leaks
Not only can a leak cause serious problems in terms of water damage and mold, it can also be responsible for low water pressure. A leak can prevent water from flowing throughout the house equally which can result in low water pressure in the kitchen and/or bathroom. Tracking down a leaky pipe isn’t always as simple a process as it sounds. However, there is one easy way to determine if you have a leak. Turn off all the faucets inside and outside your home, as well as the sprinklers, and then write down the number on the water meter. Check it in a few hours to see if the number has increased. If it has, then you’ve got a leak. The usual signs of a leak are wet spots on ceilings and walls or floors and walls that are bowed or spongy. Provided you have some basic plumbing knowledge, you may be able to replace the damaged pipe yourself.
Corrosion
Corroded pipes are a common problem in older homes with steel or galvanized plumbing. After 15-20 years, corrosion can begin to set in which can reduce a pipes flow capacity by as much as 70 percent. In addition to being a leading cause of low water pressure, it can also weaken the integrity of the pipes which could lead to leaks, further exacerbating the flow problem, and cause water damage to your home. Typically, the solution involves replacing the existing plumbing with PVC. This is not a quick fix nor is it inexpensive if you aren’t able to do the work yourself. There are some things you can do to make your low water pressure a little less irritating until you are able to afford to have your house re-piped, including installing flow restrictors in showerheads and faucets. This won’t actually improve the water flow but it will make the problem less noticeable when your showering or using the sink.
Are you having issues with your water pressure? Contact Davis Plumbing for a Free Estimate!