How to Troubleshoot Low Water Pressure at Home

The Four Common Causes of Low Water Pressure

If you have zero to no water pressure at home, don’t panic! Whether it’s a sudden drop or a gradual decline, low water pressure can make everyday tasks difficult.

There are a few potential causes of low water pressure and, thankfully, some easy solutions. Our team at Mr. Rooter Plumbing of South Jersey will walk you through troubleshooting low water pressure so that you can get your taps flowing again.

4 Causes of Low Water Pressure

Low water pressure can be a frustrating and dangerous problem for the average homeowner, as it can limit water flow through their pipes. Common causes of low water pressure may include the following.

1. Clogged Aerators

The aerator is an important part of any faucet or showerhead. It helps to conserve water by breaking the flow into many tiny drops, giving the faucet a consistent water pressure level. Every so often, it can become clogged with minerals and debris, influencing the flow and pressure of your tap.

Unclogging an aerator is fairly easy and includes:

• Step 1: Unscrewing the aerator from the end of your faucet or showerhead using gentle force; if it sticks, then apply some WD-40 or a similar lubricant to help loosen it
• Step 2: Soaking the aerator in a mixture of one part vinegar and one part water for a few hours before rinsing and scrubbing it carefully with an old toothbrush
• Step 3: Cleaning all the parts in soap and hot water and reattaching them correctly

2. Pipe Obstructions

A pipe obstruction often occurs when debris, dirt, or other items make their way inside the pipes. This can lead to a buildup of material that prevents water from properly moving through the pipes resulting in low water pressure.

Fortunately, there are solutions to fixing the problem. In some cases, using a natural drain cleaner (avoid chemical drain cleaners) can help break up the blockage and restore water pressure. If you have more serious clogs, HydroScrub Jetting may be necessary to clear out the obstruction so that your water pressure returns to normal. Ensure you take caution when using either of these tools, as they can damage your pipes if used improperly.

3. Corroded Pipes

Corroded pipes are one of the unfortunate side effects of owning a property, as they can dramatically affect water pressure levels. When metal pipes corrode, they become less thick, allowing water to escape and reducing the overall pressure. Pipe corrosion can also cause everyday problems such as low flow or blocked toilets and showers. Corroded pipes can be inconvenient and hazardous in areas with heavy appliance use, such as laundromats or commercial kitchens.

To identify and fix the problem, it’s best to contact a qualified Vineland plumber who can inspect your plumbing for any leaks and carry out any necessary repairs. Depending on the damage, this may involve replacing part or all of your pipework with new, un-corroded material so that your pipes are working at optimum efficiency again.

4. Low Main-Line Pressure

Low main-line pressure is of great concern to Vineland homeowners relying on water networks for daily use. If the main line that feeds into your property has pressure lower than average, it will reduce water pressure in all your plumbing fixtures. This can be anything from low-pressure showerheads to a slow flow when running a tap.

Additional pumps or boosters may need to be installed to combat the effects of low main-line pressures and keep water usage functioning as expected. A professional survey by an experienced plumber at Mr. Rooter Plumbing of South Jersey can shed more light on the best solution for your home’s water pressure. Don’t live with reduced water pressure any longer: investigate now and determine what action you need to take.

Let Mr. Rooter Plumbing of South Jersey Troubleshoot Water Pressure Issues Quickly!

The thought of forgoing a nice hot shower sounds like a fate worse than a cold water sandwich. If you’re experiencing weak or no water pressure in your home, several potential causes exist. Low water pressure can result from a clog in the aerator, sediment buildup inside the pipes and valves, improper pipe sizing, a change in the water pressure from your town or city, or a faulty pressure regulator.

Fortunately, you don’t have to troubleshoot the issue alone. Our plumbers at Mr. Rooter Plumbing of South Jersey are prepared to investigate the source of your low water pressure. We’ll identify the causes, try a few strategies to discover what works best for your situation and design a custom repair or replacement plan.

To get started, call or request an estimate today!