Problems with low water pressure in the shower are more common than you think. Some problems have quick fixes while some might require the help of professionals. If your water pressure is less than 45 PSI, you should definitely consider looking into the problem.
Issues With Valves
Closed and worn out valves can contribute to low water pressure. The main shut-off valve needs to be fully open to ensure proper water pressure. These valves are usually located in the mains system. Plumbers generally shut off the valves when working. Sometimes the low water pressure problem can be solved by simply opening the main valve or any other closed valves in the plumbing system.
Other valve issues might be of the mixing valve which regulates the proper supply of hot and cold water. If this valve is faulty it can contribute to low water pressure. It will need to be repaired or replaced by a professional to restore normal pressure.
Old Shower Heads And Main Pipes
Old shower head models tend to have low pressure than newer ones. They tend to restrict the flow of water especially if they are water conserving models. This problem is relatively easy to fix as you can replace the old one with a new shower head by yourself or you can take help of a plumber to repair your existing shower.
Sometimes low water pressure can be attributed to old main pipes in your area. This problem is comparatively more difficult to fix since you have no control over it. The best way you can improve your water pressure in this situation is to get a shower pump installed.
Flow Restrictors
Some shower head companies have flow restrictors installed in their shower heads. These companies usually aim at conserving water by restricting water flow. Some of them do this to comply with energy laws. Either way a flow restrictor can really affect your water pressure.
Fortunately removing the flow restrictor from your shower head is not a hard task and can be accomplished without a professional. Instructions pertaining to flow restrictors are usually given in the shower head manual.
High Water Demands
High water demand is a very common cause for low water pressure. If your shower head has low water pressure only during certain times of the day, high water demand is the usual explanation.
You can avoid this by taking showers during off-peak hours. If you take showers at the same time as everyone else, water pressure will be low. If you can’t adjust your shower schedule you can consider other options like a water pressure pump which increases water flow rate upto 80 ltr per minute.
Clogged Pipes
Sometimes the low water pressure problem might be an indirect result of clogged pipes. Pipes can be clogged due to a variety of reasons like dirt buildup etc. Unclogging the water pipe can help relieve the low water pressure issue. Also, if water supply pipes are faulty and have leaks, it can impede the flow of water.
Blocked Water Heater
If you experience different pressures with hot water and cold water, the issue might be with your water heater. Problems with water heaters are usually due to clogged dirt or sediments in the water tank or pipes. You can solve this problem by draining out your water heater and flushing out all the lines.
Dirty Shower Heads
This is actually a common problem which many people tend to overlook. If you are not someone who regularly cleans your showerhead, there are chances for accumulation of calcium and other mineral deposits. You can restore the normal water pressure by cleaning your shower head thoroughly.
If you encounter the problem of low water pressure repeatedly, try to fix it as quickly as you can. Don’t wait around thinking it is going to solve itself. You can either contact someone who is experienced or fix it yourself.
