Low Water Pressure: Common Causes and Simple Fixes

Low water pressure is one of the most frustrating plumbing problems homeowners face. Whether it’s a shower trickling instead of spraying, a dishwasher taking forever to fill, or faucets barely running, low water pressure can disrupt your daily routine.

The good news? Most low water pressure issues can be traced to a few common causes, and many have simple fixes you can try before calling in a professional plumber.

How to Test Your Home’s Water Pressure

Before looking for solutions, confirm whether your home’s water pressure is actually low.

• Attach a water pressure gauge to your outdoor hose spigot.
• Normal household water pressure should typically fall between 45–60 pounds per square inch (psi), though anything in the 40–80 psi range is generally acceptable.
• Test indoors as well by connecting the gauge to a laundry sink or similar faucet.

Maintaining steady pressure isn’t just about convenience. According to Health Canada, consistent water pressure is a crucial factor in maintaining water quality and preventing contamination within distribution systems.

If your gauge shows lower-than-expected readings both inside and outside, the issue likely stems from your main water supply or pressure regulator. If only one faucet or shower is affected, the problem may be a local fixture issue, such as a clogged aerator or cartridge.

Common Causes of Low Water Pressure

1. Partially Closed Valves

• Main shut-off valve: If this isn’t fully open, the entire home’s water flow is restricted. Ball valves should have their lever aligned with the pipe; gate valves should be turned counterclockwise until fully open, then backed off a quarter turn.
• Water meter valve: Controlled by the water company, it may be left partially closed after maintenance. Contact your local water supplier if you suspect this.

2. Pressure Regulator Problems

A pressure regulator is designed to protect your plumbing system by keeping pressure at safe levels. Over time, regulators wear out; their lifespan typically ranges from 10 to 20 years.

• If your regulator is failing, you’ll notice a lower water pressure than the regulator’s setting.
• Test by attaching a gauge near the regulator.
• A professional plumber can adjust or replace it if necessary.

3. Clogged or Corroded Pipes

• Clogged pipes: Limescale, sediment, or mineral deposits restrict water flow, especially in areas with hard water.
• Corroded pipes: Galvanized steel can corrode in as little as 20 years, while copper lasts ~50 years and brass up to 70. Corrosion narrows pipes, reducing water flow.

🛠️ Fixes:

• Install a water softener to prevent mineral buildup.
• If pipes are aging, repiping with copper or plastic may be the only long-term solution.

4. Leaking Pipes

Leaks redirect water flow, lowering pressure and potentially causing costly damage, such as warped walls, mold, and even foundation issues.

• Look for wet spots, stains, or pooling around exposed pipes.
• Temporary fixes include epoxy putty or repair clamps, but these should only provide temporary relief.
• More than one leak may exist, so professional inspection is important.

5. Faulty Fixtures

Sometimes, the problem isn’t the pipes, but rather the fixtures.

• Faucet aerators and showerheads often clog with mineral deposits or debris.
• Cleaning aerators takes about 10 minutes and can quickly restore normal flow.
• Cartridges under sink handles can also block water flow and may need replacement.

6. Too Many Fixtures or Appliances Running at Once

Running water-using appliances simultaneously, such as the shower, dishwasher, laundry, and outdoor faucet, can cause a significant pressure drop.

• Stagger water use throughout the day.
• Coordinate household water usage to avoid low flow.

7. Water Softener or Hot Water Tank Issues

• Old or clogged water softener (10–15 year lifespan) can restrict flow.
• Sediment buildup inside a hot water tank can also reduce pressure on the hot water side.
• Cleaning or replacing equipment often solves the problem.

8. Municipal Water Supply Problems

Sometimes the issue lies outside your home:

• Water main breaks or municipal repairs.
• City regulation changes that lower allowable pressure.

🛠️ Fix:

• Ask your neighbors if they’re experiencing low water.
• Call your local water supplier to confirm.
• In cases of permanently reduced flow, installing a water pressure booster may be the best option.

9. Shared Pipelines

If your home shares a line with a neighbor, their water usage can affect yours. This often results in low flow when both homes are drawing heavily.

• Workarounds: Schedule your water use when neighbors aren’t using theirs.
• Permanent solution: new dedicated line (though this can be expensive).

10. Well System Issues

Homes on wells may experience:

• Pump failure
• Pressure switch malfunction
• Well running dry

A plumber familiar with well systems can test the pump, adjust the switch, or recommend solutions.

Simple DIY Solutions to Fix Low Water Pressure

• Check valves: Ensure both the main shut-off valve and water meter valve are fully open.
• Clean aerators and showerheads: Remove mineral deposits with vinegar or replace them entirely.
• Inspect for leaks: Look under sinks, in basements, or around outdoor faucets.
• Test with a pressure gauge: Identify whether the issue is localized or system-wide.

If these DIY solutions don’t resolve the issue, it’s time to call in a professional plumber.

When to Call a Professional Plumber

Contact a plumber if you notice:

• Persistent low water pressure after DIY fixes
• Multiple leaking pipes or corroded branch lines
• Regulator or softener issues beyond simple adjustment
• Low pressure in both hot and cold water lines

Plumbers can also provide advanced solutions, such as pipe relining (a lower-cost alternative to replacement) or installing a booster pump, if city regulations limit your water pressure.

Key Takeaways

• Low water pressure can be caused by a variety of issues, ranging from a clogged aerator to a malfunctioning pressure regulator or problems with the municipal water supply.
• Always start with simple checks, like valves, fixtures, and leaks.
• Use a pressure gauge to measure your home’s water pressure in pounds per square inch (psi).
• Call a professional plumber for persistent issues, corroded pipes, or system-wide failures.

Conclusion

Low water pressure doesn’t just slow down your shower; it can indicate leaks, aging pipes, or other issues with your plumbing system. By checking common causes and trying simple fixes, you may be able to restore proper water flow on your own. However, when the problem is more severe, professional help is the safest and most effective solution.

📖 Read More: Common Plumbing Problems: A Complete Guide for Canadian Homeowners

👉 For reliable plumbing service in Vernon, Coldstream, or Lake Country, call Vernon Air Conditioning, Plumbing & Electrical Services. Our licensed team will diagnose the cause, repair your system, and help increase water pressure so your home runs smoothly again.