The Most Common Reasons For Low Water Pressure & How To Fix Them

Low water pressure is a common problem that affects many homeowners across America. If you notice low water pressure in your home, you might wonder whether or not it’s something regarding your piping system. 

You can measure water pressure in pounds per square inch (psi). The higher the psi, the stronger the water flow. Most homes have a recommended minimum psi level of 30 psi.

There are many reasons why you might experience low water pressure at home. For example, your pipes may be too old and corroded. Another possibility is that your water heater isn’t producing enough hot water.

Sometimes low water pressure can be easily fixed. Other times, you may need a Carlsbad repiping plumber. This article will explain the most common reasons you may have low water pressure.

What Causes Low Water Pressure In Your Home?

Take A Look Into Your Main Shutoff Valve

Having the main shutoff valve in the proper position can help to boost water pressure. 

The main shutoff valve is a point of entry for water into your house. This valve will restrict the amount of water that can pass through if it is not fully opened. Similarly, closing the valve will cut off the water flow.

Checking the primary shutoff valve should be your first step. You may find it in your home’s basement or on the exterior wall of a utility room. 

It can be on the side facing the street if you are looking outside your home. Streetside city water frequently finds its way to you.

If a wheel-like handle operates the primary shutoff valve, it should be fully turned counterclockwise. If it is a lever handle, the handle and pipe direction must be parallel.

Keep in mind that your household controls the primary shutoff valve. If you recently had plumbing work done, it is possible that the main shutoff valve was altered and not reinstalled to its proper location.

Contact your Carson repiping company if you think there’s been a problem with the recent plumbing work. 

Is Your Water Meter Valve Completely Open?

Similarly to the main shutoff valve, the water meter valve is also a primary water source, so it influences water pressure. However, contrary to the main shutoff valve, the water meter valve belongs to the city.

In most cases, tampering with the water meter valve is not advised unless it is your only alternative due to urgent plumbing issues. But it doesn’t hurt to double-check.

Usually, the water meter valve is next to your water meter. The valve is open if the water meter handle is parallel to the supply line. Water flow is affected by the handle’s inclination.

Contact the water department in your area if the water meter valve has to be modified. They will let you know what to do next and discuss your worries about the water pressure. It is a great opportunity to inform them if your water pressure regulator has recently been giving you problems.

Problems With Your Hot Water Heater

Whether you want to believe it or not, your water heater can impact the pressure of hot and cold water. Your Cerritos repiping plumber may recommend you check the water heater before doing anything else if the water pressure is low! 

Here are two typical causes of low water pressure caused by a water heater:

Hard Water And Rust: The water heater tank and connected pipes will eventually become clogged with minerals, other particles, and even rust. The more buildup, the less room there is for water to move. 

Problems With The Water Heater Valve: Each water heater includes a shut-off valve. Your home will have less water pressure if the shut-off valve has been partially opened after being closed. 

Be careful! Water heaters can be harmful because they produce a lot of pressure. Only a plumbing professional should handle water heater repairs.

Leaks

A leak anywhere in your plumbing system will cause issues. Leaks restrict water flow and may result in low water pressure.

If your water pressure is low, look for water under countertops and below cabinets. You should also look around sinks, toilets, showers, bathtubs, and dishwasher machines. Another sign of a water leak is water stains on the walls.

Clogged Pipes

Low water pressure could be a sign of something more serious. And by more serious we mean clogged or rusted water lines.

Your Carlsbad Repiping plumber may check your piping system to ensure they are in good condition. However, if they are not, your house may need a repiping to normalize water pressure and other issues.

Issues with Pressure Reducing Valves

Most homes contain a water pressure regulator that regulates the flow of water. Your water pressure may become abnormally high or extremely low if the water pressure regulator is worn out or broken.

If your water pressure regulator is causing low water pressure, it will be visible throughout your home. You can use a water pressure gauge to check the water pressure in your house.

Contact A California Repiping Company

Regardless of the cause, it’s always better to contact the experts. At Integrity Repipe, we are ready to help you find the main cause of your low water pressure. Call us now for more help!

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Published by – Integrity Repipe Inc

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