Have you ever noticed that your shower water isn’t as strong as it used to be? This could be a sign of a bigger problem, like a leaky or broken water pipe. But don’t worry, there are ways to fix it.
Normal water pressure in a house should be between 45 to 55 psi (pounds per square inch). You can check this by using a simple tool called a pressure gauge.
You can connect this gauge to an outdoor faucet near the main water supply line or to the cold water line of your washing machine. If the pressure is below 40 psi, it means your water pressure is low.
5 Common Reasons For Weak Water Pressure In Shower
Water Pressure Regulator Devices: These devices control the water pressure in your house. If your shower suddenly has weak water pressure, it might be because this device isn’t working properly. If this is the case, it’s best to call a professional plumber to fix it.
Home Water Valves: These are the main controls for water coming into your house. If they’re accidentally turned off, your shower might have weak water pressure. To fix this, find your home water valve (usually in a box called a water meter box) and make sure it’s completely turned on.
Using Showers During Busy Times: If you use your shower early in the morning or at night, when many other people are also using water, your shower might have weak water pressure. To check if this is the problem, try using your shower at a different time when fewer people are using water.
Mineral Buildup in Pipes: In older houses, or houses with old plumbing systems, minerals from the water can build up in the pipes over time. This can cause weak water pressure in your shower. If this is the problem, you’ll need to call a professional plumber to clean or replace your pipes.
Pipe Leaks: If water is leaking out of your pipes, less water can reach your shower, causing weak water pressure. If you think this might be the problem, you’ll need to call a professional plumber. They can use special equipment to check your pipes and suggest the best way to fix them.
Troubleshooting Tips
- Check Other Plumbing Units: If your shower has weak water pressure, check other water sources in your house, like your sink faucets. If they also have weak water pressure, you might have a water leak.
- Clean Your Showerhead With Vinegar: If minerals have built up in your showerhead, you can clean it with a mixture of hot water and vinegar. Let the showerhead soak in the mixture overnight, then rinse it off. This can help remove the mineral buildup.
- Check If You Have a Flow Restrictor: Modern showerheads often have a device called a flow restrictor to help save water. If your shower has weak water pressure, you could remove the flow restrictor as a temporary solution.
- Check Your Water Line & Valve: Make sure your water valve is completely open and your water line doesn’t have any kinks or bends that could block the water flow.
- Check Your Water Heater: If your shower has weak water pressure only when you use hot water, the problemmight be with your water heater. Make sure the shut-off valve on your water heater is open.
- Flush Your Water Heater: Sometimes, your water heater might have sediment or debris build-up that can block the water flow. If this is the case, you might need to drain and flush your water heater.
Remember, if you’re having trouble figuring out why your shower has weak water pressure, or if you need help fixing it, don’t hesitate to call a professional plumber.