Water pressure problems can make everyday tasks a significant headache. A relaxing shower can turn into a low-powered, trickling stream; doing the dishes can turn into even more of a chore, and filling up your tub to unwind in a nice, warm bath could take what feels like centuries.
You may notice that your home's water pressure fluctuates, and it can be tricky figuring out why it's continually changing and what to do about it. The good news is that low water pressure is a common problem with many simple solutions.
What Should My Home Water Pressure Be?
Most commonly, water pressure is measured in pounds per square inch (PSI). PSI represents the force at which water enters your home. Most residential properties have water pressure between 40 and 70 PSI. Anything below 40 is considered low, and PSI above 70 can lead to burst pipes.
Functional Flow: How Your Water is Really Running
The PSI measures your home's overall water pressure, but there is another type of measurement to consider. The functional flow of your water determines how much water can reach its destination; operational flow can cause low water pressure even if your home's overall PSI is at a reasonable level.
Causes of Low Water Pressure
Clogs and Build-Up
Hard water deposits, dirt, and debris can gradually obstruct water in your pipes. If you think that your plumbing is to blame, a professional technician can take a closer look and determine whether or not you need to have the pipes cleaned with a hydrojet or snake.
The Water Valve Isn’t On All the Way
Sometimes, the external water valve that connects your town's water supply to your home is reduced or turned off. When this happens, you'll experience low water pressure even if your internal valve is fully turned on.
The water valve may be located outside, but it could also be in an underground box beyond your property or the basement or garage. It's best to have a professional come and check the water valve as it technically belongs to the water company.
The Pressure Regulator Isn’t Working
Many homes have water systems with a built-in pressure regulator. When this malfunctions, the water pressure can either skyrocket to dangerous levels or drop too low. If your pressure regulator is the problem, then you'll notice the low water pressure in every fixture of your home.
When low water pressure only affects one or two fixtures in your house, the cause is usually linked to their respective pipes. The best way to get to the bottom of low water pressure is to have a professional come out for a quick service call. They'll be able to determine precisely why your water pressure is dropping and what you can do about it right away.
Experiencing Low Water Pressure? Let Dr. Mitch and Team Help!
At Mitch Wright Plumbing, Heating & Air, we are here for all of your plumbing and HVAC needs, which is why we happen to offer 24/7 emergency services. For more information on the services we provide, visit us on the web or give us a call at (901) 795-9044.