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Put Low Water Pressure in the Past

Posted on February 6, 2021 by

Don't Let Low Water Pressure Ruin Your Day

Low water pressure is an issue that millions of homeowners face on a daily basis. Whether in the shower or while doing dishes, low water pressure doesn't allow for maximum water usage. This could lead to longer shower times, more effort to do the dishes, run the dishwasher, and longer time filling a bathtub. 

When water pressure is low, there's no doubt that it can affect quality of life. Homeowners may find water dribbling out of their faucet or not spraying out of their showerhead at a reasonable speed and volume. If this is the case, it may be time to call in the professionals. 

Why Does Low Water Pressure Happen?

Low water pressure has a surprisingly large amount of causes. One of the most common reasons is two plumbing fixtures running simultaneously. This happens because the home's water supply can only offer so much at a time. The water has to get split up to go to the two fixtures asking for the supply. Once one supply has stopped, the water pressure will increase. 

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Another cause for low water pressure is outdated fixtures. Over time, fixtures can become faulty, whether from a buildup of mineral deposits such as rust, sediment, or limestone. If a fixture gets obstructed, it can prevent water from getting to where it needs to go. 

Pressure regulators are another reason for low water pressure. If the water gets turned on and it's too high, or there's no happy medium between low and high, then it's likely that the water pressure regulator is failing. It should be set to 45-60 PSI and shouldn't need adjusting. If this is an issue, a professional plumber can switch it out. 

Other reasons why low water pressure happens is: 

  • Water valves
  • Clogged pipes
  • Corroded plumbing

Methods for Fixing Low Water Pressure

Low water pressure isn't only frustrating, but it could mean additional problems in the future. There are quite a few ways that homeowners can fix low water pressure. One method includes checking for a clogged aerator. This is the screen on the faucet that filters particles. If it becomes clogged, water pressure will dip. It can be removed and cleaned easily. 

Another method is to flush out the tank. When sediment builds up in the water heater tank, it can decrease water pressure. Homeowners should drain the buildup from the tank as part of a plumbing maintenance routine. This can easily be done by a plumbing professional. 

Replacing the showerhead is another resort that homeowners can take to solve low water pressure. It's an inexpensive method, and it gives the shower a fresh new look. Sometimes the small holes that let the water through can become clogged, resulting in low water pressure. Homeowners can try to clean the showerhead, but replacing it seems to be the better option. 

Low Water Pressure Preventionletters

If low water pressure isn't a concern yet but could be in the future, there are a few ways that homeowners can prevent it. One way is to fix any outdated plumbing fixtures in the home. They may not be a problem now, but they will later on. 

Furthermore, keep an eye on the water pressure that is currently in the home. If the water sprays out at normal pressure but then quickly reduces its speed, this could indicate that the pipes are clogged. This is an issue that happens with galvanized steel pipes. If pipes seem like they may be starting to clog up, call a plumber right away to clean out the pipes before they become a bigger issue.  

About Plumb Perfect Plumbing

Plumb Perfect Plumbing in the Fredericksburg, VA area is available 7 days a week for all plumbing emergencies. They have more than 20 years of experience and offer emergency plumbing services, fast service, coupons for first-time customers, financing, and various other services to fit all homeowner's needs. Call now for plumbing services!

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