Common Causes of Low Water Pressure While Showering
Having the ability to take a long, hot shower every day is a gift that shouldn’t be overlooked. The comfort derived from a good shower can help ease the tension of the day, not to mention showering is just good hygiene. However, one of the problems that can plague a shower is low water pressure.
When hot water doesn't come in adequate volume for a shower, the experience can be disappointing, uncomfortable, and frustrating. Finding the cause of low water pressure is the first step to regaining a pleasant shower experience. Here are the three possible reasons for low water pressure in the shower and some advice about what to do to fix them.
Water Heater Problems
Troubleshooting low water pressure in the shower can be confusing as homeowners need to narrow down the source of the low water pressure. To do this, turn on the hot and cold water taps and let them run until they turn warm. Then, turn off the cold water to observe the hot water flow. Next, turn the cold water back on and turn the hot water off.
If there is a significant drop in pressure with the hot water compared to cold water, the problem might be traced back to the water heater, especially if the problem is present in showers and faucets when using hot water. Water heaters can succumb to corrosion and sediment buildup, affecting hot water flow from the water heater. By scheduling water heater services from a qualified professional, they can identify and fix the problem to restore good water pressure when using hot water.
Pipe Leaks or Clogs
Another possible cause of low water pressure with both hot and cold water is leaks or clogs. Leaks allow pressure and water to escape the plumbing system, preventing full pressure from being released through the shower head and fixtures. Homeowners can help figure out if they have a leak with signs like:
- Moist or wet spots on the floor, walls, or ceiling
- Higher water bills
- Hissing noises or the sound of running water
- Musty odors
Additionally, homeowners can use their water meters to check if they have a leak. If suspected, they should hire a plumber to repair the leaks and restore water pressure. Along with leaks, clogs can also cause low water pressure. Clogs can form in water lines when corrosion is present or minerals build up. Plumbers should also solve clogs in the plumbing to help fix homeowners’ water pressure problems.
Rule Out the Shower Head
Dissolved solids and minerals can also cause a loss of water pressure to a singular plumbing fixture, like a shower head, by lodging in the holes and obstructing water flow. If this problem is suspected due to a white, crusty build-up called scale on the shower head, it can be removed and cleaned or replaced.
Have a plumber replace the shower head or remove the existing one, soak it in an acidic cleaning solution, and use a tool to make sure the holes of the shower head nozzle are clear. This should help restore water pressure to the fixture, but if it doesn’t help, there may be an underlying cause like those mentioned above that plumbers need to look into.
About Ira Hansen and Sons Plumbing
Ira Hansen and Sons Plumbing is a family-owned and operated company serving Reno and the surrounding areas. They offer competitive prices, upfront service, and personalized solutions. Call them today for hassle-free plumbing services in Reno, NV.
