Low water pressure can make washing your hair, cooking, or even filling up the sink into time-consuming, annoying ordeals. While some causes of low water pressure are fairly simple to fix, in some cases, it may indicate serious problems that require the attention of a skilled plumber. Below are a few of the most common causes of low water pressure in your home.

5 Reasons for Low Water Pressure

1. Faulty or Clogged Fixtures

Old, worn-out, or clogged fixtures are the single most common source of water flow problems. If water trickles from your shower head, but your kitchen faucet is fine, simply cleaning the aerators out can usually correct the problem. If not the faucet may need replacing.

2. Partially Closed Meter

The water meter valve, usually located under a cover by the street, can also be the source of water pressure problems. Normally, this valve is only accessed by the utility company, but plumbers also use it to shut off the water during repairs. If you’ve recently had someone work on your pipes, they may not have opened the valve all the way, restricting the flow of water into your house.

3. Failing Pressure Regulator

Many homes feature a pressure regulator (PRV), which reduces the water pressure to a level that won’t damage your plumbing. Depending on the issue, a failing pressure regulator can cause your water pressure to spike or cut off the flow entirely.

4. Clogged Pipes

Over time, mineral deposits and corrosion can build up inside of your pipes, restricting water flow or even blocking it entirely. This is especially common in older homes with galvanized plumbing and typically requires professional expertise to fix.

5. Broken Pipes

A broken pipe is among the most serious plumbing issues, potentially resulting in thousands of dollars in water damage throughout your home. A sudden loss of water pressure is often the first sign of a broken pipe, especially if part of your plumbing system is buried under the house.

If your home has suffered a sudden loss of water pressure, trust the experts at Baity Plumbing Co. to deliver the effective, affordable results you need. They’ve proudly served homeowners throughout North Carolina’s Davidson, Guilford, and Randolph counties for over 40 years, and have built their name on treating every customer like family. Visit their website for more on their residential and commercial services, get more tips and advice on Twitter, or call (336) 475-0921 to speak to a representative.