Low Water Pressure Solutions

There's nothing more frustrating than turning on your faucet and getting a weak trickle instead of a steady stream. Low water pressure doesn't just make showering and washing dishes difficult—it can also signal underlying plumbing issues that need attention.

How to Tell If You Have Low Water Pressure

Before diving into solutions, it's important to identify if you actually have a water pressure problem. Normal residential water pressure should be between 40-60 PSI (pounds per square inch). You might have low water pressure if:

• Water comes out of faucets in a weak stream rather than a strong flow
• Your shower feels like a drizzle instead of a proper spray
• Washing machines and dishwashers take longer to fill
• Multiple fixtures can't run simultaneously without pressure drops
• Upper floors have noticeably weaker water pressure than lower floors

You can measure your home's water pressure with an inexpensive pressure gauge available at any hardware store. Simply attach it to an outdoor spigot and turn on the water.

Common Causes of Low Water Pressure

1. Clogged Aerators

The simplest fix: Often, what seems like low water pressure is actually just a clogged aerator—the small screen at the tip of your faucet. Mineral deposits, sediment, and debris can accumulate here over time, restricting water flow.

2. Partially Closed Main Water Valve

Your home has a main water shutoff valve that controls water flow to your entire house. If this valve isn't fully open—perhaps after recent plumbing work—it can significantly reduce water pressure throughout your home.

Where to find it: The main shutoff valve is typically located where the water line enters your home, often in the basement, crawl space, or utility room. Make sure it's turned fully counterclockwise to the open position.

3. Corroded or Clogged Pipes

If your home has older galvanized steel pipes, corrosion and mineral buildup inside the pipes can gradually narrow the passage for water flow. This is especially common in homes built before the 1960s.

Signs of pipe corrosion:

• Discolored or rusty water
• Visible rust or corrosion on exposed pipes
• Water pressure that has gradually decreased over years
• Leaks at pipe joints

Unfortunately, corroded pipes typically require professional pipe replacement or repiping. While this is a significant investment, modern materials like PEX and copper offer decades of trouble-free service.

4. Faulty Pressure Regulator

Many homes have a pressure regulator (also called a pressure-reducing valve) installed where the main water line enters the house. This device protects your plumbing from excessive pressure from the municipal supply. If the regulator fails or is set incorrectly, it can cause low water pressure throughout your home.

How to tell: If all fixtures in your home suddenly have low pressure, the regulator may be the culprit. These devices typically last 10-15 years and should be replaced by a professional plumber.

5. Leaking Pipes

A leak anywhere in your plumbing system reduces the water available to your fixtures, resulting in lower pressure. Some leaks are obvious, but others may be hidden behind walls, under floors, or underground.

6. Municipal Supply Issues

Sometimes the problem isn't in your home at all—it's with the municipal water supply. Construction, repairs, increased demand, or problems at the water treatment facility can all cause temporary or persistent low pressure.

Check with neighbors: If they're experiencing the same issue, contact your local water utility to report the problem.

7. Water Heater Issues

If you only have low pressure with hot water (but cold water is fine), the problem likely lies with your water heater. Sediment buildup inside the tank or a partially closed shutoff valve can restrict hot water flow.

Solution: Have your water heater flushed annually to remove sediment, and check that the shutoff valve is fully open.

8. Clogged Fixtures or Showerheads

Similar to faucet aerators, showerheads can become clogged with mineral deposits, especially in areas with hard water. If only one fixture has low pressure, this is likely the cause.

Easy fix: Remove the showerhead and soak it in white vinegar overnight, then scrub away mineral deposits with a brush.

DIY Solutions You Can Try

Before calling a plumber, try these simple fixes:

1. Clean aerators and showerheads: Remove, rinse, and soak in vinegar
2. Check valve positions: Ensure main shutoff and fixture shutoff valves are fully open
3. Test water pressure: Use a gauge to confirm the actual PSI
4. Inspect visible pipes: Look for signs of leaks, corrosion, or damage
5. Check with neighbors: Determine if it's a municipal supply issue

When to Call a Professional Plumber

Some water pressure issues require professional diagnosis and repair. Contact H2O Plumbing if:

Preventing Future Water Pressure Issues

Keep your water flowing strong with these preventive measures:

• Install a water softener if you have hard water to prevent mineral buildup
• Flush your water heater annually to prevent sediment accumulation
• Clean faucet aerators and showerheads every 6 months
• Have your plumbing inspected by a professional every few years
• Consider repiping if you have galvanized steel pipes over 50 years old
• Monitor your water bill for unexpected increases that might indicate leaks

Expert Help When You Need It

At H2O Plumbing, we've been diagnosing and solving water pressure issues for Southwest Washington families for over Family-Owned years. Our experienced technicians have the tools and expertise to quickly identify the source of your low water pressure and provide lasting solutions.

Whether it's a simple valve adjustment, a pressure regulator replacement, or a complete repiping project, we'll give you honest recommendations and transparent pricing. We're committed to restoring proper water flow to your home so you can enjoy the comfort and convenience you deserve.