Strong water pressure is important for many of our daily tasks, such as taking a shower, washing the dishes, or doing the laundry. When the water comes out as a weak trickle, it can be difficult to do even the simplest things.
Read on to discover the importance of identifying and fixing low water pressure issues, the causes of low water pressure, low water pressure solutions, and how Express Septic can help Idaho homeowners.
Understanding Low Water Pressure: What It Means
Most homeowners have experienced low water pressure, but what does it mean? Find out how to tell if you have a water pressure issue that needs attention.
What is considered low water pressure?
Check the water pressure in your home using a pressure gauge attached to your home’s hose faucet. Normal residential water pressure levels range between 45 to 80 psi (pounds per square inch). If your water pressure is below 40 psi, you may need professional plumbing help for low water pressure.
How to tell if you have a water pressure problem
If you don’t have a pressure gauge, it’s still possible to identify weak water flow in sinks and showers. You may notice your dishwasher or washing machine taking longer to fill, or it takes longer to clean dishes, and your showers aren’t as satisfying as they used to be.
Check whether all of your fixtures have low pressure or only a few. This information is valuable for your plumbing pro and will help them pinpoint the issue quicker.
Common Causes of Low Water Pressure
As an experienced Boise septic and plumbing company, we know the most common causes of low water pressure and how to fix them. Here are a few likely reasons you’re dealing with low water pressure in the Boise area.
Household plumbing issues
Your home’s plumbing system could be the reason you have low water pressure. The cause may be:
- Clogged aerators and faucets affecting water flow.
- Clogged pipes reducing water flow.
- Mineral buildup in pipes from hard water.
- Leaking pipes reducing overall water pressure.
- Partially closed shut-off valve restricting flow.
- Old or corroded pipes reducing water pressure.
Municipal and external causes
Sometimes, the cause of your low water pressure isn’t in the home but somewhere in the city water system or your home’s main supply lines. Municipal and external causes of low water pressure include:
- Issues with the city’s water supply affecting homes in your area
- Nearby construction or maintenance work lowering water pressure
- High demand periods (morning/evening rush) affecting pressure
Water heater and well system problems
In some cases, the culprit behind low water pressure could be a problem with your home’s water heater or well. These issues can include:
- Faulty water heater reducing hot water pressure
- Well system pressure tank issues causing inconsistent water flow
DIY Fixes for Low Water Pressure
Is it possible to increase your home water pressure yourself? In some cases, you can troubleshoot and fix water pressure problems on your own. Here are some DIY fixes for low water pressure.
Clean faucet aerators and showerheads
If you’re only dealing with low pressure on certain fixtures, such as your sinks or showers, you may be able to fix the issue by removing mineral buildup from faucets. Follow these steps:
- Step one: Mix equal parts vinegar and baking soda into a paste.
- Step two: Put the paste on the faucet and let sit for 10 minutes.
- Step three: Scrub and rinse the faucet.
- Step four: Fill a sandwich bag with more paste.
- Step five: Attach the bag to the faucet with rubber bands so it’s submerged.
- Step six: Let sit for 20 minutes, then scrub and rinse.
Check and adjust the main shut-off valve
Your low water pressure could be the result of a partially closed main shut-off valve. You can usually find your shut-off valve in your basement, crawl space, or near the water heater or laundry room. Sometimes, it may be on an exterior wall or in the yard. Once you find it, confirm that it’s turned all the way to the open position to restore normal flow.
Flush your plumbing system
Another common cause of low water pressure is debris or airlocks in your home’s pipes. Open all hot water fixtures in the house, including in bathrooms, kitchens, and laundry rooms. Let them run for about 15 minutes before closing them again. Do the same thing with all cold water fixtures for five minutes, then see if your water pressure issues are resolved.
Check for pipe leaks
Your low water pressure could be caused by a hidden plumbing leak. These are hard to find on your own, but common signs include water stains on walls and ceilings, mold growth, or damp spots around the home. If you think you have a hidden leak, it’s best to contact a professional plumber.
Adjust the pressure regulator
A water pressure regulator reduces water pressure as it enters your home, but sometimes, it decreases pressure too much. To adjust your home water pressure regulator, first locate it near your water shut-off valve. Then tighten the screw in small increments to gradually increase water pressure. Test the pressure at a fixture after every adjustment to make sure you don’t overdo it.
When To Call a Plumber for Low Water Pressure
Sometimes, it’s best to call a plumbing and drain repair professional for low water pressure troubleshooting. Here are some signs that it’s time to talk to an expert.
Signs you need professional help
You may need to hire a professional plumber if:
- DIY fixes don’t work
- Water pressure keeps dropping
- You have major pipe leaks or corrosion requiring expert repair
- There are issues with city water supply that require an expert opinion
Professional plumbing solutions
A professional plumber has countless resources and techniques to help restore your home’s water pressure, including:
- Hydro jetting to remove severe buildup in pipes
- Replacing old or damaged pipes to restore water flow
- Installing a water pressure booster pump for homes with consistently low pressure
- Fixing or replacing faulty water pressure regulators
They can also help with other plumbing issues, such as drain cleaning for recurrent clogs or septic drain field repairs.
Preventing Future Water Pressure Problems
Here are some ways to prevent future water pressure problems in your home:
- Get annual plumbing inspections.
- Perform routine drain cleaning.
- Avoid bad drain habits.
- Install a water softener.
- Upgrade old galvanized or corroded pipes to PEX or copper for improved flow.
Service Areas: Expert Plumbing Help Near You
For almost 20 years, Express Septic and Drain Cleaning has been proudly serving the Treasure Valley, offering several discounts and flexible financing options. We provide water pressure troubleshooting and plumbing services in:
- Boise
- Caldwell
- Eagle
- Garden City
- Greenleaf
- Homedale
- Huston
- Kuna
- Marsing
- Meridian
- Middleton
- Nampa
- Notus
- Parma
- Star
- Wilder
Get Fast Water Pressure Solutions Today!
You don’t have to put up with poor water pressure. With the help of Express Septic & Drain Cleaning, you can get quick, reliable service at a reasonable rate. Whether you need a simple drain cleaning or full-on pipe replacement, our team of experienced plumbing pros is up to the task. Contact us today to schedule a service.
