Most people may not notice how water pressure affects their daily lives until an issue occurs. When the pressure is low, tasks like showering, washing dishes, and doing laundry become harder to complete. Fortunately, a plumbing contractor can narrow down the exact cause and offer a permanent solution. The guide below highlights a few likely reasons for the problem.

What’s Causing Low Water Pressure?

1. Fixtures

Fixtures like showerheads or faucets could be the reason why an appliance has low water pressure. If the fixtures are old, they can become clogged with substances like rust or dirt, affecting the flow of water. For a faucet, check if the screen or aerator is clogged as well — it could be an individual part causing the issue rather than the whole sink.

2. Water Valves

The water flow of your home is actually controlled by two valves — one of which is in or around your home, and the other is typically at the curb or sidewalk outside the home. If either of these valves are partially closed, it could result in low water pressure.

If you know the location of the valve inside your home, give it a couple of twists to see if it’s open all the way. As for the outdoor valve, only city employees are allowed access to it in some areas. A professional can check to see if it’s open.

3. Pressure Regulator

A pressure regulator reduces water pressure to a safer level. Your home might not have a pressure regulator, as some municipal lines don’t provide water at higher pressures. If you do have one, you’ll likely find it below your home’s front hose connection.

The regulator should be set at 40-60 psi (pound-force per square inch) and can be adjusted by turning the screw at the tip clockwise to increase the water pressure and counter-clockwise to decrease it. If the water pressure appears to be extremely strong or extremely weak with no middle ground, it may need to be replaced by a plumbing contractor.

4. Corroded Pipes

In the same way that pipes become clogged with rust or debris over time, they can also corrode, in which case you may need to get your whole plumbing system replaced. The corrosion process cannot be reversed, so it’s impossible to save the old pipes. 

This issue is hard to confirm for yourself, as the pipes are underground, but it’s always a possibility if you have an older home. If you think your pipes are clogged or corroding, it’s best to contact a plumber right away. 

If you need a plumbing contractor to help with your home’s water pressure, contact Biggerstaff Plumbing Heating & Air in Lincoln, Nebraska. Not only can they assist you with any of your plumbing needs, but they also provide water heater maintenance, HVAC services, heat pump repair, and more. For more information on the company, visit them online or call (402) 466-8118.