Having the right water pressure is essential for running a comfortable and functional home. Without adequate water pressure, you’ll struggle to enjoy refreshing showers, run some of your appliances, and prevent leaks in your home. 

So, what happens when your water pressure isn't quite right? In this guide, we'll equip you with the knowledge to diagnose common water pressure problems and troubleshoot potential solutions.

What Exactly is Water Pressure?

Water pressure refers to the force with which water flows through your pipes, measured in pounds per square inch (PSI). An ideal water pressure range is 50 PSI, and most home’s water pressure falls between 40 and 60 PSI, which is fine. 

If you’re experiencing weak showers, slow appliance filling, or frequently hissing pipes, you might be dealing with either low or high water pressure.

Signs of Water Pressure Problems

Low Water Pressure

A PSI under 40 suggests you’re struggling with low water pressure. Low water pressure means that the water coming out of your taps and appliances has a weaker flow than usual. This means that you may experience:

  • Weak shower flow
  • Slow filling of washing machines and dishwashers
  • Trickling faucets
  • Difficulty flushing toilets

High Water Pressure

A PSI over 80 typically suggests that you have high water pressure. This means that the water flow is stronger, and sometimes forceful. Some telling signs of high water pressure are:

  • Knocking pipes (water hammering)
  • Spraying faucets
  • Geysering toilets (sudden bursts of water)
  • Frequent bursts of water when turning on taps
  • Potential leaks due to stressed pipes

Testing Your Water Pressure

Before diving into solutions, it's important to confirm the pressure in your home’s water system.  Check out our step by step guide on how to test water pressure. It provides all the information you need to test water pressure using a pressure gauge and can help you troubleshoot.  

Fixing Water Pressure Issues

Troubleshooting Low Water Pressure

There are several reasons for low water pressure, and the solutions can often be quite simple! Here are some of the most common culprits:

  1. Clogged faucet aerators 

These small screens at the tip of your faucet can trap mineral deposits and debris over time, reducing water flow. 

  1. Closed shut-off valves

There might be a shut-off valve near your water meter, controlling the flow of water to specific fixtures. Make sure these valves are completely open for optimal flow.

  1. Clogged pipes

Mineral buildup or sediment buildup can gather inside pipes over the years, narrowing the passage and restricting water flow. While some DIY methods might exist for minor clogs, extensive clogs or those deep within the plumbing system are best left to a professional plumber. 

  1. Faulty pressure regulator

This device, usually located near your water meter, controls the water pressure entering your home. If it malfunctions, it can restrict flow. A licensed plumber can diagnose and replace a faulty pressure regulator if needed.

Troubleshooting High Water Pressure

While less common, identifying and reducing high water pressure is important, as it can damage your pipes and appliances. 

Potential causes for high water pressure can be:

  1. Malfunctioning pressure reducing valve (PRV)

This valve acts like a safety switch for your home's plumbing system. It regulates the incoming water pressure from the municipal supply to a safe level for your household fixtures. 

A faulty PRV can malfunction and allow too much pressure to enter your home.  If you suspect a faulty PRV, it's important to call a licensed plumber. They can diagnose the problem and replace the valve if necessary.

  1. High pressure from the local water supplier

In uncommon situations, the water pressure coming from your water supplier might be higher than usual. This can happen due to temporary maintenance work or other unforeseen circumstances. 

If you suspect this might be the case, it's helpful to contact your local water provider directly. They can advise you on the situation and any steps they are taking to rectify it.

When to Call a Plumber

While some solutions can be DIY projects, it's always best to call a licensed plumber for complex issues or hidden leaks. Their expertise can save you time, money, and potential water damage in the long run. Here are some signs that a plumber's help is needed:

  • The problem persists after trying DIY solutions.
  • You suspect a leak behind walls or underground.
  • You're uncomfortable working with plumbing fixtures or valves.

Preventing Water Pressure Problems

Here are some handy tips to keep your water pressure in check:

  • Schedule regular plumbing inspections: A professional plumber can detect potential problems before they escalate and affect your water pressure.
  • Address minor leaks promptly: Even a small leak can affect water pressure over time.
  • Consider a water softener: In areas with hard water, mineral buildup can be more of an issue and restrict water flow. A water softener can help prevent this.

Maintaining good water pressure is key to a functioning and comfortable home. By understanding the signs of low or high pressure, you can ensure optimal water flow in your home. 

Remember, for complex issues, a qualified plumber is always a valuable resource. 

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