Low Water Pressure? Easy Fixes to Boost Your Home’s Flow

1. 1. Check Other Taps

      Purpose: Checking faucets can assist in identifying if the decreased water pressure is a singular problem (impacting only one tap) or a widespread problem (affecting the entire house).(This step is very important)

      What to Do:

      • • Remember to open up the faucets, in parts of the house like the kitchen and bathroom.
        • If there is pressure, in just one faucet or tap in your home or office building’s plumbing system, chances are the issue lies within that particular fixture itself.
        • If the water pressure is low in all faucets at home, it could be due to problems with the plumbing system inside your house or external factors such as issues with the water supply.
   2. Clean the Aerator (for Faucets)

      What’s the Aerator?: The aerator refers to a mesh screen located at the end of the faucet, which blends air with water to avoid splashing and regulate the flow of water.

      Why Clean It?: As time goes by and particles like dirt and mineral build-up accumulate (in places with hard water), they can block the aerator and lessen the flow of water

      How to fix this problem:

      • 1. Remove the aerator from the faucet tip by unscrewing it. In case it's too tight to turn by hand easily, you can use pliers gently to assist you.
        2. Remember to wrap a cloth around the aerator beforehand to prevent any scratches on its surface.
        3. Soak the aerator in vinegar, which works well in breaking down mineral deposits for approximately half an hour.
        4. Gently scrub the area with a toothbrush to get rid of any leftover dirt or buildup.
        5. Make sure to clean and put back the aerator on the faucet before testing the water pressure more.
   3. Check for Leaks

      Why Leaks Cause Low Pressure: When there’s a leak in your plumbing system it can lead to a drop in water pressure at the tap because the water gets redirected elsewhere.

      What to Look For:

      • Signs that leaks are present can be seen through spots or puddles near plumbing lines or damp walls in your vicinity.
      • Watch out for any dripping or hissing noises that could suggest water leakages occurring nearby

       

      What to Do: If you find a leak , you can :

      1. • Make sure to secure the connections near the faucets and visible pipes.
         • You can try using plumber’s tape or sealant for leaks as a temporary fix; however, for larger leaks, it's best to call in a professional plumber.
   4. Check the Shut-off Valves
      • • Shut-off valves are valves located under sinks or close to toilets that manage the flow of water to areas within your home.
        • The significance of this issue lies in the fact that when the shut-off valve is not completely open, it may restrict the flow of water and lead to reduced pressure.

      What to Do:

      • • Find the valve, typically located beneath the sink or close to the water heater.
        • Twist the valve completely in the direction to make sure it is fully open.
        • Make sure to double-check the pressure once you've adjusted the valve.
   5. Check the Water Pressure Regulator

      What It Is A water pressure regulator manages the water pressure as it enters your house from the supply line.

      Why It Matters: When the regulator is not working properly or adjusted too low, it may lead to a decrease in water pressure across the household.

      What to Do:

      • The water regulator is typically positioned at the point where the primary water line enters the residence, resembling a device shaped like a bell.
      • You can modify it by loosening the locking nut and rotating the adjustment screw in a clockwise direction to raise the water pressure.
      • Warning: If you're not well-versed with the regulator’s functions, it's advisable to seek guidance from a certified plumber before attempting any adjustments.
   6. Check for Blocked or Corroded Pipes

      Why It Happens Over the course of time, pipes—those made of older galvanized steel—may get blocked by rust, sediment, or mineral build-up, resulting in a decrease in the flow of water.

      What to Do:

      • If you think there might be blockages or rusted pipes in your plumbing system, it is advisable to contact a professional plumber for a thorough inspection.
      • They may suggest replacing the damaged portion of pipe if necessary.
   7. Flush the Water Heater (for Hot Water Issues)

      The reason sediment impacts water pressure is because, as time passes, sediment accumulates at the base of the water heater, causing a hindrance in its capacity to heat and circulate water effectively, resulting in decreased hot water pressure.

      What to Do:

      • The reason sediment impacts water pressure is because, as time passes, sediment
      • Remember to switch off the water heater and let it cool down before doing anything.
      • Connect a hose to the drain valve located at the base of the water heater.
      • Release the water into a bucket or outside area.
      • Turn the valve to release the water and sediment before shutting it off and filling up the tank again.
      • Switch the heater on and verify if the water pressure has increased.
   8. Municipal Water Supply Issues
      • If the previous suggestions don't solve the issue at hand, it's possible that there could be a problem with the water supply system in the city.
      • Maintenance work or repairs in the vicinity might occasionally lead to a drop in water pressure.
      • You can install a pressure gauge on the outside of your home to check the water pressure. The ideal pressure range is between 40 and 60 psi. same this photo
   9. Install a Booster Pump

      When to Use a Booster Pump: If your house always experiences low water pressure due to the local water supply conditions (like being located at the end of a water line or on higher ground), using a booster pump can enhance the pressure effectively.

      What to Do:

      • You can have a plumber install a booster pump at the point where the main water line comes into your house.
      • These water pumps help boost the water pressure in your house so that every faucet has a steady and even flow of water.
   10. Frozen Pipes (in winter specially in Canada)

       Why It Happens:

       •  In regions during winter seasons, pipes can freeze, resulting in reduced or blocked water flow.

       What to Do:

       • Make sure to inspect the pipes in places without insulation, such as basements, attics, or exterior walls Be cautious, as frozen pipes can burst and cause significant damage.
       • If a pipe becomes frozen during cold weather conditions ,Remember to be careful because frozen pipes can burst and result in damage

Final Tips:

1. • If you have followed the steps mentioned earlier and the water pressure issue persists, it might be a good idea to contact a plumber for a thorough inspection.
2. • If your house is older, changes in water pressure might indicate that your plumbing system needs updates or replacements to keep everything running smoothly.