Fixing Water Pressure Issues
Why Is My Water Pressure Low (or Too High)?
Water pressure problems can make your shower weak and frustrating or cause unnecessary strain on your plumbing. If your taps are trickling or blasting out too forcefully, the issue could be caused by blocked pipes, faulty fixtures, or a main water supply problem.
Here’s how to troubleshoot water pressure issues and restore a steady, comfortable flow.
1. Common Causes of Water Pressure Issues
🚰 Why is your water pressure too low or too high?
✔ Clogged tap aerators or showerheads – Mineral buildup restricts water flow.
✔ Partially closed valves – A supply valve may not be fully open.
✔ Blocked or leaking pipes – Internal buildup or leaks can reduce pressure.
✔ Issues with the mains supply – External water supply issues can affect pressure.
✔ Faulty pressure regulator – Some homes have a pressure-limiting valve that may need adjusting.
💡 Tip: Check if all taps are affected—if only one is low, it’s likely a fixture issue, not a main supply problem.
2. How to Fix Low Water Pressure
🔹 Method 1: Clean the Showerhead or Tap Aerator
✔ Unscrew the showerhead or tap aerator (small filter inside the spout).
✔ Soak it in vinegar for 30 minutes to dissolve mineral buildup.
✔ Scrub with a soft brush, rinse, and reinstall.
💡 Best for: Fixing weak shower pressure caused by calcium deposits.
🔹 Method 2: Check That Valves Are Fully Open
✔ Locate your main water valve (usually near the water meter).
✔ Ensure it’s fully open to allow maximum water flow.
✔ Check individual isolation valves under sinks and near the toilet.
💡 Tip: If you recently had plumbing work done, a valve may have been left partially closed.
🔹 Method 3: Look for Leaks in Your Plumbing
✔ Check for wet spots under sinks or around pipes.
✔ Inspect the walls and ceiling for signs of hidden leaks.
✔ Monitor your water meter—if it’s still running when no taps are on, there may be a leak.
💡 Best for: Sudden drops in water pressure that don’t affect all taps equally.
🔹 Method 4: Remove Sediment Buildup in Pipes
✔ Turn off the water supply to your house.
✔ Open all taps to drain remaining water.
✔ Turn the main supply back on slowly to flush out sediment.
💡 Best for: Homes with older pipes that experience gradual pressure loss over time.
3. How to Fix High Water Pressure
If your taps blast out water too forcefully, high pressure can strain your plumbing and appliances.
🔹 Install a Pressure-Reducing Valve (PRV)
✔ Locate the main water pressure regulator (if your home has one).
✔ Adjust it using a wrench to reduce water pressure.
✔ If you don’t have a PRV, a plumber can install one.
💡 Tip: A PRV helps prevent pipe damage, leaks, and excessive water bills.
🔹 Check for Faulty Fixtures
✔ Some modern taps and showerheads come with built-in pressure restrictors.
✔ If pressure is too high at one fixture, replacing the tapware may help.
💡 Best for: Isolated high-pressure issues at specific taps or showerheads.
4. When to Call a Plumber
If your water pressure problem persists after trying these fixes, it may require professional repair.
📞 Call a plumber if you notice:
✔ Low pressure throughout the house – Could indicate a main supply issue.
✔ No improvement after cleaning fixtures and checking valves.
✔ Sudden changes in pressure – May be a sign of a burst pipe or municipal supply problem.
✔ Constantly high pressure – Puts stress on plumbing and needs regulation.
💡 Tip: If your neighbours also have water pressure issues, check with your local water provider to see if there’s a supply problem.
5. Preventing Future Water Pressure Problems
🚿 Keep your plumbing in top shape with these simple tips:
✔ Clean aerators and showerheads every few months to prevent mineral buildup.
✔ Check valves regularly to ensure they are fully open.
✔ Fix leaks quickly before they affect water pressure.
✔ Install a water softener if you have hard water to prevent buildup in pipes.
💡 Tip: A yearly plumbing check-up can help catch small issues before they become big problems.
Final Thoughts: Enjoy Perfect Water Pressure
Whether your water pressure is too low or too high, simple troubleshooting can often fix the problem. If DIY solutions don’t work, a professional plumber can assess and resolve deeper plumbing issues.
At Custom Bathroom Creations, we recommend regular maintenance to keep your water pressure steady and your bathroom in top condition!
Need expert plumbing advice? Contact us today!