Why Do I Have Low Water Pressure?

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Why Do I Have Low Water Pressure?

Many homeowners have faced the annoyances of low water pressure in their home. Daily activities such as washing clothes, dishes and taking a shower become marathon events as the flow of water travels at a snails pace towards your fixtures. There are several reasons that can cause your fixtures to experience low flow situations. Below you will find the most common reasons that lead to low water pressure or flow in your home.

Leaking Water Lines

Leaking water lines can put a dent in your home’s water pressure and pocket book. It makes sense that if your pipes are leaking, you are experiencing low water flow to your fixtures as well as wasting a valuable resource. If you suspect your pipes are leaking, contact a plumber immediately to test the system. They can record and monitor the meter or pump pressure gauge to determine if it is losing pressure while the system is not in use.

Debris and Sediment Buildup

Many reasons can cause debris and sediment buildup to impede your home’s water flow. The culprit could be a deteriorating water heater tank or simply minerals present in hard water. Recently broken pipes and water main fractures can also allow debris and sediment to enter your plumbing system. Often, the debris winds its way through your plumbing system and clogs whole house water filters, shower heads or a faucet aerators, which can reduce their flow to a trickle.

Corroding Water Pipes

Low flow or water pressure problems due to corroding pipes are often present in homes that utilize steel or galvanized plumbing. Although these systems can last up to twenty years or longer, as time passes, rust and corrosion buildup inside the pipes reduces water flow. Unfortunately, more often than not, this circumstance requires the services of a professional plumber to replace the water lines.

Municipal Water Malfunctions

Recent repairs or modifications to your area’s municipal water supply could cause you to experience a drop in water pressure. These systems are also subject to leaks, fractures, buildups and other problems that can diminish your water service. If you suspect your low water pressure is related to a municipal system, you should contact them and report your problem.

Private Well Issues

Homes connected to a private well utilize a pump, pressure tanks and pressure regulators to deliver fresh water to your fixtures. A failing pump, pressure tank or regulator or any combination of the three can all lead to poor water pressure inside your home. If your are experiencing low water pressure with your well system, it is to your benefit to contact a professional plumber as soon as possible to prevent additional damage to your pump and well equipment.

For answers to your questions, contact The Pink Plumber today.

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