There can be few feelings as reinvigorating as a hot, powerful shower first thing in the morning. What’s not quite as refreshing, however, is having to make a limp trickle do the job when you’re running late for work and the toast is burning!

Low water pressure is a common problem in many households, and it can be incredibly frustrating to deal with. It doesn’t just impact showers either, with everything from your toilet’s flush to your kitchen sink affected by it. If you’re experiencing low water pressure, it’s important to understand the common causes and how to fix them without having to call up the local plumber.

Common causes of low water pressure

Water leaks – Leaks in your plumbing system can cause low water pressure. Even a small leak can affect pressure over time, so it’s important to fix any leaks as soon as possible as they will get worse.

Clogged pipes – Over time, sediment and debris can accumulate in your pipes, leading to blockages that reduce water pressure. This is especially common in older homes with galvanized steel pipes.

Faulty pressure regulator – If your home has a pressure regulator, it could be the cause of your low water pressure. These regulators are designed to control the flow of water into your home, but if they become faulty, they can restrict water flow and reduce pressure.

Water supply issues – If your neighbours are also experiencing low water pressure, it could be a problem with the main water line. If it’s not just you that’s experiencing low water pressure, maybe it’s a problem for the council to fix.

How to Fix Low Water Pressure

Check for leaks – If you suspect a leak, check your pipes, faucets, and toilets for signs of water damage. Fix any leaks you find as soon as possible to prevent further damage and improve water pressure.

Clean your pipes – If you suspect that sediment or debris is causing blockages in your pipes, you can try cleaning them out. You can do this by running hot water through your pipes for a few minutes or using a drain-cleaning solution. Try not to use chemicals that are too strong though, as this could do more harm than good in the long run.

Check the pressure regulator – If you have a pressure regulator, you can check to see if it’s functioning properly by using a pressure gauge. If the pressure is too high or too low, you may need to adjust or replace the regulator.

Contact your water supplier – If you’ve ruled out problems with your home’s plumbing system, it’s possible that the low water pressure is due to issues with the local water supply. Contact your water supplier to find out if they are aware of any problems and when they expect the issue to be resolved.

Install a water filter or softener – While cleaning your pipes of any debris or sediment certainly works, wouldn’t it be better if there was no debris or sediment to worry about in the first place? By installing a water filter or water softener in your home system, you’ll ensure your pipes never get clogged again. At least not with sediment and debris anyway!

Low water pressure can be a frustrating problem to deal with, but it’s important to identify the cause and address it promptly. By following the tips above, hopefully, you can improve your home’s water pressure and really enjoy that hot shower rather than just tolerating it.