Low water pressure can be a huge problem in your home. From not having enough pressure to take a pleasant shower to waiting forever to fill a pot with water, low water pressure makes it difficult to get simple tasks done in your house. There are several causes for this problem, so familiarize yourself with some plumbing basics before you call a plumber.
Old Pipes
Old pipes can be a major factor in low water pressure, particularly in older buildings. Over time, the inside of the pipes can suffer from buildup that constricts the flow of water throughout your home’s plumbing system. If your home has galvanized pipes or you own an older home, there is more of a risk that you might be experiencing this problem.
Shut-Off Valve Issues
The main shut-off valve to your home controls the flow of water to your home’s plumbing system. Sometimes, the valve may not be open all the way. This restricts the flow of water to your home, which will release in lower pressure, even if you have brand new pipes. If you aren’t sure about where the valve is or if you are nervous about handling the valve yourself, you can hire a plumber to tackle this quick and easy job for you.
Leaks
Any time there is a leak in the supply pipes, you will see a reduction in the pressure coming into your fixtures. Your pipes are designed to work at a specific capacity, and if there is a leak in any pipe in your home, the right amount of water won’t get to the fixtures in the way you expect. Since you can’t always see leeks in your pipes, you should consult with a plumber to find the source. Even a pinhole leak can have an impact on your plumbing.
What Will the Plumber Check for In Your Home?
Your plumber may be able to get a good idea of your Orange County home’s water pressure issues by talking to you about the problems you have been experiencing. The plumber will then do a series of tests and inspections to determine the cause of your problem. These inspections can include:
- Visual inspection of plumbing fixtures
- Inspection of the main shutoff valve
- Inspection of the home’s pressure regulator and water meter
- Inspection of the plumbing lines
Once your plumber has performed the usual inspections and diagnostic tests, you’ll get a clear picture of what is wrong with your plumbing system. Your plumber can give you a detailed explanation of the problem along with suggested repairs and an estimate, so you can get your water pressure in Orange County back to normal.
