The 7 Most Common Causes of Low Water Pressure

If you get a slow, miserable trickle when turning on the taps in your Midvale, UT home, your water pressure is low. Low water pressure makes it difficult to effectively clean anything. Your dishwasher and washing machine will run longer, and you might spend your time in the shower seething with frustration. Keep reading for the seven most common causes of low water pressure.

1. Your Water Supply Pipes Have Mineral Buildup

If the water flowing into your home is excessively hard, your water supply lines could be riddled with hard water minerals. This buildup gradually blocks the pipes so that incoming water has less room to move. You can resolve this by scheduling hydro jetting or hydro steaming service. You can prevent it by putting a water softener in.

2. Damaged Pressure Reducing Valves

Pressure-reducing valves or pressure-regulating valves maintain balanced pressure within residential plumbing systems. Not all homes have them, but yours might if you struggled with excessively high water pressure in the past. If these valves ever become displaced or worn, a licensed plumber can solve the problem and restore adequate water flow.

3. Leaky Pipes

If any water supply line develops a leak, you’ll notice a significant decrease in water pressure at the related tap. If your main water supply line leaks, you’ll have low water pressure throughout the entire building.

4. Your Water Shut-Off Valve Is Partially Closed

During an overflow or flood event, you can minimize building damage by turning your water off at the main water supply. However, if you don’t fully reopen this valve after the problem is resolved, you’ll have low water pressure until you do.

5. Local Regulations Have Changed

Local municipalities periodically update their water pressure regulations. Given that utility companies must adhere to these guidelines, your only recourse could be having a water booster installed.

6. Age-Related Pipe Corrosion

Like hard water buildup, age-related corrosion gradually blocks supply pipes. If you have old, galvanized steel pipes in your home, now may be the time to replace them.

7. Water Supply Problems

If everyone in your neighborhood is experiencing low water pressure at the same time, the problem likely lies with your water company. To expedite repairs, contact your water company and report the issue even if other homeowners have already.

We proudly serve residents of Midvale, UT. We provide general plumbing, water heater, drain cleaning, and repiping services. If your water pressure is low, give Rare Breed Plumbing a call!