Low Water Pressure In Shower?
Low water pressure in the shower or sink faucets can make it difficult to complete daily tasks such as cleaning and bathing. In this blog post, our plumbing experts discuss the three main causes of low water pressure. Sometimes there is a quick fix for improving water pressure from the home’s plumbing fixtures. However, homeowners should know that low water pressure could indicate a larger problem with the plumbing system.
The entire plumbing system of a home is connected through a complicated network of pipes and plumbing fixtures. A problem in one area of the plumbing could manifest itself in various ways, including causing low water pressure from the shower and taps.
How Leaks Can Cause Low Water Pressure
Water travels from the main water line to the plumbing fixtures via a hidden network of pipes. A leak somewhere in the piping could cause water to drain out before it can all reach the shower or sink. This is how pipe leaks can cause low water pressure. Homeowners can check for signs of leaks around the base of the plumbing fixture that could indicate why the water pressure is lower than normal.
Homeowners should not ignore signs of a pipe leak. When a leaky pipe is left in a state of disrepair, it could eventually burst. Burst pipes can cause extensive property damage. Even a small leak can lead to water damage and mold growth. Fixing a leaky pipe could improve water pressure and protect the household from the hazards of a plumbing leak.
Do Clogged Pipes Cause Low Water Pressure?
As mentioned, the entire plumbing system is connected. A clogged drain or a clogged pipe could be why the water pressure is low in the shower. Homeowners should be careful about what gets washed down the drain and avoid flushing anything besides toilet paper.
Solid objects, clumps of hair, or cooking grease are a few examples of substances that could clog up the pipes. Tree roots can also work their way into the underground pipes in search of water, clogging the passageways.
Homeowners should never use liquid drain cleaner because it contains toxic chemicals which are hazardous to human health. When a clogged pipe or drain is suspected, homeowners should call a professional plumber for drain cleaning services. Plumbers can use drain snakes and other professional tools to safely clear the path for the water and return to normal water pressure.
Hard water could also cause a buildup of mineral deposits on sink taps or shower heads that block the passage of water. Installing a water softener to remove some of the minerals from the water can prevent minerals from caking up the small holes where the water comes out of the showerhead or faucet.
Check for a Closed Water Meter Valve
Homeowners should pay attention to whether the water pressure is low for the entire home or just one plumbing fixture. When there is a decrease in water pressure from only one fixture, it usually means that the fixture is faulty. Cleaning, repairing, or replacing that fixture should solve the problem. However, a problem with the main water valve will reduce pressure from all of the home’s plumbing fixtures.
Every home has a main shutoff valve that controls water flow from the main water line. During plumbing maintenance and repairs, this shutoff valve stops the flow of water so that the work can safely be performed. Water meter valves can accidentally become partially closed, reducing water flow. Homeowners should locate and check their water meter valves to troubleshoot the cause of low water pressure.
About Green Hills Plumbing
Green Hills Plumbing is a locally owned plumbing company available 24/7 for emergency service. They provide upfront pricing, no mess, and a 100% satisfaction guarantee. Call them today for plumbing services in Nashville, TN, and the surrounding areas.
