Under Pressure. 3 Causes and Troubleshooting Tips for Low Water Pressure.

November 18, 2014

You may have cause for concern when you experience low water pressure in your home. With multiple causes, low water pressure can be a small annoyance or a warning of a larger issue.

You may be able to fix the problem on your own in just a few minutes, or you may need to call in a plumber.

Another helpful article regarding low water pressure: What Causes Low Water Pressure?

We’ve created a list of options you can take to troubleshoot low water pressure issues before getting professional help.

Option One: Are you experiencing low water pressure only when using a particular faucet? Check all of the fixtures indoors and out to determine if the issue is with you water pressure as a whole or just one area.

If your low water pressure is limited to a specific fixture, you likely have a blocked aerator. The solution is simple. Remove the end of your faucet and clean the aerator. Normal pressure should return.

If this does not fix your problem, or low water pressure is concentrated to one area of your home, you may have a leak or clog in the pipe leading up to that fixture/area. We recommend calling in a professional plumber for next steps.

Option Two: Does low pressure only affect your hot water? You may have an issue with the shut-off valve on your water heater. Your heater is equipped with a shut-off valve in case of emergency. And if this valve is accidentally adjusted it can reduce your pressure.

If you locate and adjust this valve on your heater, you should see your water pressure return to normal.

If this does not fix your problem, you will need to have a professional plumber to check the lines leading up to your heater.

Option Three: Are you experiencing low water pressure throughout your entire home? If so, you can save yourself a lot of time and anxiety by calling your neighbors first. If your neighbors are having issues with low water pressure also, you may have a leak in the main lines and should call the water department to report an issue.

If your neighbors are not experiencing issues with their water pressure, and you have a water softener in your home you should start there. Switch your water softener to bypass mode and see if your pressure is restored.

If you do not have a water softener, you can check your pressure reducing valve (PRV) next. Your PRV is shaped like a bell and often located on the line as it enters your home. You may be able to restore your pressure by adjusting this valve.

Finally, you can check the shut-off valve at your water meter. Ensure that the shut-off valve has not been shut off. Even turning the valve slightly can reduce your water pressure.

If none of these steps resolve your issues with low water pressure, the next step is to contact a professional plumber. You likely have a leak somewhere in your plumbing and any leak large enough to cause low water pressure is one that needs to be addressed right away.