How Do I Fix Low Water Pressure in My House?

Low water pressure is a common complaint that makes everyday tasks like showering, washing dishes, and doing laundry frustrating and ineffective. It happens when the water flow from your faucets, showerheads, or other fixtures is weaker than expected.

Several factors can contribute to low water pressure, including aging pipes, leaks, pressure regulator issues, and well pump problems.

Identifying the Cause of Low Water Pressure

Before addressing low water pressure, you must first identify the cause. Here are some common reasons for low water pressure, either throughout the house or at a specific faucet.

Low Water Pressure Throughout the House

• Aging pipes: Over time, pipes can corrode or become clogged with mineral deposits, reducing water flow. This is common in older homes where the plumbing system hasn’t been updated for many years.
• Leaks: Any leaks in the water supply line can cause a drop in water pressure. These leaks might be small and hard to detect, but they can have a surprisingly significant effect on your water pressure.
• Pressure tank issues: The pressure tank may be water-logged or have a ruptured bladder, leading to fluctuations. The pressure switch may also need adjustment or replacement.
• Well pump problems: If you get your water from a private well, issues with the pump can lead to low pressure. Your well pump may be aging and struggling to keep up with household usage. If pump replacement is needed, a stronger pump may be installed. 

Low Water Pressure at a Specific Faucet

• Clogged faucet aerator: Mineral deposits and sediment can clog faucet aerators, reducing water flow. This is a likely cause if you only experience low water pressure at one or two faucets.
• Faulty water heater: If the low pressure only affects your hot water, the water heater might be having issues. For instance, sediment buildup in the tank may affect efficiency and hot water pressure. A faulty valve could also prevent hot water from leaving the tank when you call for it at the tap.

6 Solutions for Fixing Low Water Pressure

Once you’ve identified the potential cause, you can try several solutions to restore your water pressure:

1. Clean faucet aerators and showerheads: Soak aerators and showerheads in vinegar overnight to dissolve mineral deposits. This simple solution should improve water flow if mineral buildup is to blame. If there was sediment, have a sediment filter installed.
2. Have the pressure tank evaluated by Water Doctor: Replacement or adjustment may be needed.
3. Repair leaks: In addition to reducing the pressure available to your fixtures, leaks waste water. Inspect your pipes for leaks and repair them promptly to prevent water pressure drops.
4. Insulate your pipes: Insulated pipes experience fewer pressure drops caused by temperature fluctuations. They’re also less prone to freezing and bursting. This task is especially important if your pipes run through unconditioned spaces or along exterior walls.
5. Replace old pipes: If your pipes are old and corroded, replacing them may improve water pressure. Modern plumbing materials are less prone to corrosion and provide better water flow.
6. Have the well pump evaluated and consider a water pressure booster pump: A booster pump increases water pressure in homes that rely on well water and need a consistent water supply throughout the house. 

Call Water Doctor for Water Pressure Services

While DIY solutions can resolve many low water pressure issues, some problems require professional intervention. Hiring a licensed company ensures the job is done correctly and efficiently.

Water Doctor offers comprehensive well pump services in Anne Arundel County, Montgomery County, Howard County, Baltimore County, and Carroll County, MD. Our private well customers have depended on us for our reliable water pressure solutions since 1979.

Next time your water pressure drops, contact our licensed, bonded, and certified technicians to ask for help, and we’ll restore your home’s water pressure.