It’s no secret that low water pressure can be an extremely frustrating issue, especially if you’re trying to fill up a sink or take a shower.
Low water pressure is a common problem that is caused by different reasons – both big and small. In our most recent blog, the professionals at Indiana American Water discuss some of the reasons your home’s water pressure might have dropped and how to fix it.
Common Reasons for Low Water Pressure
Normal water pressure is generally between 40 and 60 psi. If your water pressure suddenly falls, it could be for a number of reasons, including:
Using Too Many Appliances at Once
Using too many water-using appliances at once can lead to a reduction in water pressure. For example, watering your grass, running the dishwasher and taking a shower all at the same time can reduce the water pressure. Consider staggering when you run your appliances during the day. If you shower at 8 a.m., wait until 9 or 10 a.m. to run the washing machine.
Bad Plumbing Installation or Repairs
If you recently hired a plumbing contractor for repair or installation services and you’re experiencing low water pressure or flow restrictions, it could be due to a poor installation or even a botched repair job. It’s important to always hire licensed plumbers with positive reviews.
Water Shutoff Valve
Your home’s water shutoff valve controls the flow of water into your home. If plumbing repair or installation work was recently performed and you’re experiencing low water pressure, check that the valve is fully open. A partially closed water meter valve can reduce water pressure.
Corroded Pipes
Galvanized steel plumbing piping was often used in homes built before 1960. Galvanized pipes are much more susceptible to corroding which narrows the inside of the pipe and can lead to reduced water pressure across a home. The only real solution to this issue is to replace your old pipes with new copper or cross-linked polyethylene (PEX) tubing.
Fault Pressure Regulator
A pressure regulator is installed immediately after the main shutoff valve in areas of the home which are prone to experiencing higher-than-normal water pressure. This prevents exceedingly high water pressure from damaging your pipes, plumbing fixtures and home. If you’re experiencing low water pressure, make sure the regulator’s setting isn’t too low or that the regular is broken. The pressure regulator should be set to about 50 psi. If the pressure regulator is set to 50 psi and you’re still experiencing water pressure issues, contact a local plumber to inspect it.
Water Heater Leaks
If the cold water is flowing normally in your home – and you’re only dealing with hot water flow issues – check your water heater for leaks or other issues. If you do see problems or leaks around the heater, contact a licensed plumber right away to take a look.
Other Leaks
Leaks are another common reason for reduced water pressure in the home. Check both inside and outside the home for any possible leaks, and check the leak indicator on your water meter. You may have a leaky appliance or a leak in the pipe that runs to the appliance.
Blockages
If only certain faucets have a lower flow rate, the issue could be related to those individual faucets. Remove any filters or faucet aerators to check for blockages.
Indiana American Water Is Committed to Quality Water
Indiana American Water is proud to provide the residents of Indiana with clean, safe and quality drinking water. To learn more about the water quality in your area, click here.