Running water is a vital part of most households, from drinking and cooking to showering and washing dishes. But what happens when your water pressure suddenly drops? You may notice that the water takes longer to fill up the bathtub or the water pressure in the shower is not enough to rinse the shampoo out of your hair. If you're experiencing this issue, don't worry, as there are several causes of low water pressure that can be easily fixed.

Clogged Pipes: 

One of the most common causes of low water pressure is clogged pipes. Over time, minerals and sediment may accumulate in the pipes, leading to obstruction of water flow. This results in reduced water pressure. If this is the case, it is recommended that you call a professional plumber to clean the pipes. 

Leaky Pipes:

Another cause of low water pressure is leaky or punctured pipes. If there is a leak, water pressure drops as the water is leaked out. The best solution for a leaky pipe is to contact a professional plumber to locate and fix the puncture. Ignoring leaks can lead to potential water damage in your home.

Malfunctioning Water Pressure Regulator:

A faulty water pressure regulator can cause low water pressure. The regulator controls the flow of water from the main supply into your home. If it malfunctions or gets damaged, it can significantly reduce water pressure. In this case, you need to call a plumber to replace the regulator.

Water Demand:

Your water pressure may be low because of the demand for water in your home. Low water pressure can be experienced during peak hours when several water activities are happening simultaneously — showering, laundry, cooking, and dishwashing. In this scenario, you might want to schedule your routine tasks on different hours or days to alleviate the pressure on your water supply.

Old or Damaged Hot Water Heater:

Your hot water heater can also contribute to low pressure. Sediment or rust buildup in your hot water tank can block the flow of water. Periodically perform maintenance such as flushing the tank and cleaning the valve to prevent this problem from happening. If your appliance is too old, have it checked by a professional to evaluate whether a replacement is necessary.

Low water pressure can be a frustrating problem to deal with, but with the right information and solutions, it can easily be resolved. Contact a plumbing contractor to learn more.