Dealing With a Low Water Pressure

Any homeowner will want a steady and strong flow of water for filling, drinking or cleaning, so low water pressure will naturally present a troublesome problem. Understanding the source of the problem may also be a bit frustrating to deal with. The professionals from USA Pipe Repair, a trusted plumbing company in Richmond, VA, provide some insights into the causes and what to do about them.

Rusty Fixtures

If water pressure is fine throughout most of the house and limited to only one or two fixtures, the fixtures themselves could possibly use some attention. Limescale, grime or rust can build up on showerheads or faucets and require cleaning. Serious cases might call for a replacement by a plumber in Richmond, VA. 

Messy Aerator or Water Saver

Aerators promote consistent flow by adding air to the stream. These little screens can also be subject to clogs and mineral buildup, which affect pressure. In this case, a clean and rinse may be sufficient. Water-saving inserts are also small screens designed to keep down excessive water use. These can also become dirty or clogged.

A Partially Closed Main Shutoff Valve

A shutoff that isn’t fully open is not an uncommon cause of low water pressure. A fully open shutoff valve should already be completely turned in the counterclockwise direction. If it is and pressure is still low, you may need some investigative help from professional plumbing services.

Leaks in Pipes

Pipes with leaks are a more advanced problem that can run for weeks without discovery. This problem demands emergency plumbing services by the technicians at USA Pipe Repair. Not only do leaking pipes affect water pressure, but they can also lead to unhealthy mold and mildew and structural damage in walls.

A Bad Pressure Regulator

Pressure regulators ensure the house gets the correct rate of flow, and sometimes they fail. A way to check is to attach a water gauge to an exterior outlet. If it reads lower than the indicated pressure in the regulator, it may be the source of the problem and need replacing right away.

USA Pipe Repair is a trusted and owner-operated plumber serving Richmond, VA, and the surrounding areas. We offer general plumbing repairs and maintenance and specialize in residential and commercial drain cleaning, sewer repair and pipe lining. For assistance in resolving low water pressure issues, contact us today.