Are you noticing signs of low water pressure in your home? Maybe your clothes don’t feel clean, or it takes longer to wash out shampoo in the shower. Not having enough water pressure is a nuisance, and it can cost you both more time and money.

There are many causes for low water pressure. We’re covering three common ones today, so you can fix the problem.

1. Check the Water Meter Valve

The water meter valve is located next to the meter on the supply pipe connected to your house. There are many different types of shutoff valves, so make sure you understand the type and how to locate it.

Only water company personnel will use this valve, but you can check to see if it’s open all the way or not. The handle should be parallel to the pipe.

Additionally, you’ll want to check the home shutoff valve. This is usually located where the supply pipe enters the house. This should also be fully open.

If either of these valves is partially closed, it will affect the water pressure in your home.

2. Clogged Pipes

A clogged pipe doesn’t allow water to flow freely through. When this flow is disrupted, your water pressure also lowers.

There are many reasons for clogs, such as corroded pipes and mineral buildup caused by impurities in your water supply. Plumbers can fix clogged pipes using powerful cleaners and air pressure.

You may also need new pipes, especially if you have a home with older plumbing. Steel pipes can corrode on the inside, leading to buildup and scale that block the pipe and reduce your water pressure. Unfortunately, the only solution is to replace these pipes with plastic or copper ones.

Professional plumbers can replace sections of piping that have become corroded over time.

3. A Broken Pressure Regulator

Your pressure regulator or pressure-reducing valve can malfunction and stop working overtime. This is a device that controls your home’s water pressure to avoid damaging your pipes. However, a broken device can cause a sudden and unwanted drop in water pressure.

Water utility companies set your water pressure to between 50 and 75 psi or so. You can test this at home with a pressure gauge kit.

If the regulator is broken, you’ll need to have it replaced. The water needs to be shut off before it can be replaced. While you can do this yourself, it’s best to leave it to a professional plumber.

Water Pressure Problems?

Is your water pressure so low that it takes forever to fill a sink or bathtub, your clothes don’t feel clean after a wash, and your shower head isn’t delivering a strong enough spray?

You don’t have to live with low water pressure at home. If you noticed any of the signs above, it’s time to make the call.

Alco Air proudly serves East Texas, and we’re here for all your plumbing needs. Call us or send us a message today to talk about your plumbing problems, and we’ll reach out to you.