A good shower can get you started on the right foot in the morning. But there’s nothing worse than when the water pressure is so low that you can barely even get the conditioner out of your hair. If you’re suffering from low water pressure, you may want to know what is causing it and how you can remedy it.
According to the EPA, the average in-home water pressure is between 40 and 45 pounds per square inch (PSI). If you have low water pressure, it’s a good bet that your pressure has dipped below this number. The average family uses about 300 gallons of water a day, between showering, flushing the toilet, and running the dishwasher and washing machine.
Here’s a look at the most common reasons why you are experiencing low water pressure in your home, and how a plumber in Sacramento can help.
Water Supplier Issue
Ask your neighbors if they are experiencing lower water pressure as well. There’s a chance that this is affecting more than just your house. If the problem seems to be widespread, call your water supplier, and see if they know of an issue in your area and if they are working to fix it. You may have to just wait it out a bit while they do their work.
Changing Regulations
Sometimes, municipalities change their water regulations, which means your water supplier must comply. In this case, you could install a water pressure booster system. A professional plumber will have to install this, as proper installation will depend on factors such as size and age of your pipes. An inspector may also have to get involved.
Main House Shutoff Valve is Not Completely Open
If it becomes clear that the low water pressure issue isn’t affecting neighbors and seems to be confined to your property, it’s time to start poking around to find the culprit. All homeowners should know where the main house shutoff valve is, and how to shut it off. It’s not in the same place in all houses. It could be in a basement or crawlspace, usually on an interior wall near the front of your house.
If your home was built on a slab, you might find it inside your garage or near the hot water heater. While it may also be located outside, it’s most likely inside at the point where the main city supply pipe comes into your home.
It should be turned counterclockwise as far as possible; otherwise, it’s not completely open and could be to blame for your low water pressure.
Water Meter Valve is Not Open Completely
This is the second valve that controls the water intake in your house, and it belongs to the water company. Because most homeowners aren’t supposed to access it, it can be difficult or impossible to reach, especially if underground. You could contact your water company to get someone out there to turn it completely on.
Failing Pressure Regulator
Not every plumbing system has a pressure regulator. You can skip this section if yours doesn’t.
If you do have one, you can attach a water pressure gauge to your exterior spigot and then turn the water on. You will get an immediate reading of your water pressure from this gauge.
Clogged Pipes
Not all clogs are superficial. They can be deep within your piping, and can affect your water pressure. You’ll need a trusted Sacramento plumber to locate the source, as it could be pretty much anywhere underneath your house.
Corroded Pipes
Pipes actually have an expiration date. That’s why it’s important to know your pipe material and age. For example, galvanized steel pipes can start corroding after just 20 years. Copper pipes last 50 years or more, while brass pipes can last up to 70 years. Consider the possibility of corrosion if you have an older house.
Sharing of Pipelines
If you share a pipeline with a neighbor, your water pressure will go down whenever they take a shower or wash their car. Even though you’re not being charged for their usage, the water supply is diminished when divided between multiple households.
Leaking Pipes
Not all leaks involve puddles and gushing water. Even a small leak can misdirect your water flow. Look for wet spots or standing water around your pipes or fixtures, and get the issue repaired by a plumber to restore proper pressure.
Faulty Fixtures
If the water pressure only involves one or a few fixtures in your home, the fixtures themselves could be to blame. Aerator on faucet fixture are in place to reduce the volume of water that emerges from your faucet without compromising pressure. However, with enough time, aerators get clogged with dirt, limestone, or rust. You can remove the aerators and try cleaning them, or you may need new fixtures if the damage is severe.
Get a Free Quote From Honest Sewer & Drain
Are you suffering from low water pressure in your home in Cameron Park, El Dorado Hills, or surrounding areas? We can get to the bottom of the issue in no time. Just contact us or complete our online form for a free quote and consultation.
