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Why Do You Have Low Water Pressure?

Overview

Do your faucets or shower suddenly lose pressure? Low water pressure can stem from a variety of issues, including clogged pipes, hidden leaks, or even a failing pressure regulator. In this blog post, Lubbock A-1 Plumbing, LLC breaks down the most common reasons for low water pressure and how to fix them.

Highlights

• Diagnosing low water pressure
• How clogs affect water flow
• How faulty pressure-reducing valves restrict water flow
• How pipe leaks cause low pressure
• Main shutoff valves being closed
• Testing water pressure

Introduction

Low water pressure in places like sinks, showers, or outdoor spigots can be frustrating. The fix might be simple, but you need to know the cause to ensure you’re addressing the right issue.

Water pressure problems can stem from a variety of issues. Knowing the difference between what you might be able to fix on your own and what requires a professional can save you time and money while preventing further damage to your system.

Explore the common causes below so you can take the right steps toward a solution.

Can a Drain Camera Inspection Diagnose Water Pressure Problems?

Low water pressure can be caused by anything from hidden leaks to pipe blockages. Without an accurate diagnosis, you might still experience issues later. Identifying the root cause ensures the right repairs are made without unnecessary costs or delays.

A drain camera inspection is a valuable tool for diagnosing water pressure issues because it provides a clear, real-time view of your pipes. It can reveal blockages, corrosion buildup, or structural damage that isn’t visible from the outside. Even if you can surmise an exact cause, confirmation is key.

During the inspection, a high-resolution camera is inserted into your pipes, sending live footage to a monitor. Once the problem is identified, plumbers can determine the best course of action.

How Does a Pipe Clog Reduce Water Flow?

Among all the potential causes of reduced water flow, pipe clogs tend to be one of the most common. Pipe diameters are usually around half an inch for sinks and toilets, but if you have hair or debris buildup, the diameter can shrink significantly over time.

A clog will create a bottleneck in your plumbing system. For example, if mineral deposits restrict a pipe leading to a faucet, the water will have to squeeze through the smaller opening, resulting in weaker water flow. In more severe cases, a full blockage can cause backups and inconsistent water pressure.

So, how do you get rid of one? It depends on the severity of the obstruction. Minor clogs can often be cleared with drain cleaning solutions or plumbing snakes, but if a clog is caused by pipe corrosion or structural damage, you’ll need a professional to repair or replace the damaged section.

How Does Pipe Corrosion Affect Water Pressure?

Pipe corrosion can reduce water pressure in a similar way to a clog. Not all pipes are metal, but if yours are, they can develop rust and mineral buildup along the inner walls, gradually narrowing the diameter. This slows down water movement and creates weaker pressure at faucets and fixtures.

Corrosion happens due to constant exposure to water, oxygen, and certain minerals. Older galvanized steel and copper pipes are especially prone to this issue, with rust and scaling forming inside. This is why most systems are now built with materials like PEX or PVC, which don’t degrade the same way.

How Does a Faulty Pressure-Reducing Valve Restrict Water Flow?

A pressure-reducing valve is designed to control and stabilize the pressure of water entering your home from the main supply. They’re essential for preventing excessive pressure that can strain your pipes, damage fixtures, and lead to leaks.

If your pressure-reducing valve becomes faulty, it can restrict water flow by staying partially closed or failing to adjust properly. The common suspects are usually involved: internal wear, mineral buildup, or debris. When the valve doesn’t open as it should, water will struggle to pass through.

To fix your faulty valve, you may need to adjust the valve settings, like increasing or decreasing the pressure screw. You can also flush out any debris or replace worn internal components. If the valve is severely damaged or corroded, you might just need a new one.

What Are Signs of a Failing Water Pressure Regulator?

The most obvious sign of a failing water pressure regulator is sudden, unpredictable changes in water pressure. You might notice a strong flow one moment and a weak trickle the next, affecting multiple fixtures throughout your property.

A static pressure test can determine whether your regulator could be replaced, but keep in mind that regulators have a standard lifespan of between 5 to 10 years. Not all cities require one, but they’re a recommended safety feature nonetheless.

Here are a few signs of failure:

• Water pressure fluctuates unpredictably between high and low
• Banging or knocking noises in the pipes when turning faucets on or off
• Appliances like dishwashers or washing machines take longer to fill
• Dripping or leaking faucets despite being fully turned off
• Sudden drop in water pressure throughout the property

How Do Pipe Leaks Lead To Low Water Pressure?

Pipe leaks are like the inverse of clogs when it comes to pressure issues. Rather than blocking water flow, leaks allow it to escape before reaching faucets and fixtures. The more significant the leak, the more pressure is lost, making it one of the most common reasons for weak water flow.

Leaks can develop for several reasons, including aging pipes, corrosion, shifting foundations, or high water pressure straining weak joints. You might not notice minor leaks until they show up as damp spots on your walls or ceilings, while larger leaks cause more apparent, sudden drops in pressure.

With leaks, the fix depends on its severity and location. A minor issue may be resolved with a pipe patch or sealant, but more extensive leaks often require partial pipe replacement. If your leaks are widespread, a full repiping of the affected section may be the best long-term solution.

What Are Common Plumbing Leak Locations?

One of the most common places for plumbing leaks is pipe joints, where sections connect. Sometimes, seals and fittings can weaken from constant water pressure, temperature fluctuations, or mineral buildup. If these connections start to fail, even a small gap can allow water to escape.

Another frequent leak location is under sinks, where supply lines connect to faucets and drains. These areas are used so frequently, and vibrations from turning faucets on and off can loosen connections over time. Exposure to moisture and cleaning chemicals can also cause washers and seals to degrade.

When Do You Need New Plumbing Pipes To Fix a Leak?

New plumbing pipes might be the best solution for your leaks, especially if you’ve had a history of them. Even if a single leak can be repaired, aging pipes may continue to develop issues over time. Upgrading can prevent future leaks, so you won’t have to deal with weak water pressure.

Here are a few factors that determine the worth of replacements:

• Frequent leaks in different areas of the plumbing system
• Visible cracks or deterioration on exposed pipes
• Low water pressure affecting multiple fixtures at once
• History of pipe repairs suggesting ongoing deterioration
• Pipes made of outdated materials prone to failure

Is Your Main Shutoff Valve Partially Closed?

It might seem like an obvious thing to check, but a partially closed main shutoff valve can easily go unnoticed and restrict water flow throughout your property. This can happen after routine maintenance, plumbing repairs, or if someone accidentally turns the valve without fully reopening it.

Even a slight restriction can lead to lower water pressure at multiple fixtures, but all you need to do is locate the valve—usually near where the main water line enters your home—and ensure it’s fully open. If the handle is a lever, it should be parallel to the pipe; if it’s a wheel-style valve, turn it counterclockwise until it stops. This is a simple fix, so it’s worth checking right away.

How Can a Plumbing Test Verify Adequate Pressure?

A plumbing pressure test involves the use of a pressure gauge to measure the force of water in your system. The gauge is typically attached to an outdoor hose bib or a faucet, and the reading should fall between 40 and 60 PSI, no more than 80. If the pressure is too low or fluctuates, there’s a problem.

This test is useful both for diagnosing water pressure issues and for confirming that repairs have restored proper flow. In a lot of cases, after fixing a leak, clearing a blockage, or adjusting a pressure valve, professionals can check again to ensure that pressure levels are stable and consistent.

Hire a Knowledgeable Plumber for Your Water Pressure Issues Today

If you have ongoing low water pressure and you’ve already checked the main shutoff valve with no luck, Lubbock A-1 Plumbing, LLC can help. Our plumbers can perform a drain camera inspection to diagnose the problem and implement the best solution for your system.

Call (806) 796-0206 today to restore reliable water pressure to your home or business.