Having low water pressure in your house isn’t just annoying; it can indicate a serious plumbing emergency that might need to be addressed immediately. If flow problems are limited to one sink or shower head, you might be able to restore pressure by switching out the fixture. However, if water drips instead of flows throughout your house, you might be facing one of the issues below.

A Guide to Common Causes of Low Water Pressure

1. A Clogged Water Valve

The flow of water into your home is regulated by two valves, with one on either side of the meter. The first may only be accessible to utility employees, but you should check the one on your side to ensure it’s completely open. Usually, it’ll be on the wall somewhere near where the water line enters your house. If it’s partially closed, gently open the valve to restore full water pressure to your home.

2. A Failed Pressure Regulator

Some homes have another valve that lowers the pressure to a level that’s safe for residential plumbing systems. If the pressure regulator fails, your water pressure may increase dramatically or disappear almost entirely. Replacing the valve is a complex task best left to a professional.

3. A Broken Pipe

If the water pressure throughout the house dropped at once, a broken pipe somewhere in the system could be to blame. Broken pipes are among the most serious plumbing disasters, potentially causing widespread water damage that can destroy framing and destabilize your foundation. Calling a plumber to find and address the problem immediately can save you thousands of dollars in utility bills and water damage repairs.

If you’re facing low water pressure or any other plumbing issue, call in the experts at Bernie Buchner, Inc. Their team has over 60 years of experience serving homeowners throughout La Crosse, WI, and the Tri-State Area, offering guaranteed results on every job. Visit their website for an overview of their services, and follow their Twitter for more plumbing tips and advice. To schedule service, call (608) 784-9000, and text JOIN to (608) 480-8709 to receive text message updates.