Showering, running the dishwasher, doing laundry, and flushing the toilet are just some of the ways we use water daily in our homes. Most people typically don’t give much thought to where that water comes from and haven’t the first clue where to look when the pressure drops.
Low water pressure is one of those highly annoying things that can happen unexpectedly in your home. The issue can present itself in a variety of ways. Your kitchen sink or showerhead might have weak pressure, your faucets take what seems like an eternity to fill a sink or bathtub, or your dishwasher or washing machines don’t perform as well as they usually do.
Weak water pressure may be isolated to one fixture, or the issue might affect the whole house, often indicating a larger problem. If you are experiencing low water pressure in your home, the first step is to determine why.
Understanding Your Water Pressure
Most homes receive water from a municipal water provider. Water is pumped to treatment facilities from various sources and then to pressure tanks located at high points throughout the community. The height of the tanks generates the pressure when water is delivered to your home.
The ideal residential water pressure should be between 40 and 60 PSI (pounds per square inch). Low water pressure can be frustrating and even cause several bathroom and kitchen issues.
Common Causes
It is easy to notice low water pressure, but to resolve the issue effectively, you need to pinpoint the precise cause of the problem. These are some of the most common causes of low residential water pressure.
Closed Valves
If your water pressure is struggling, you might find that your water valve is not open all the way. The main water shutoff for your home is usually located inside, where the city supply pipe enters your house. You should check that this valve is fully open.
The valve may have a handle similar to a hose tap, which needs to be turned counterclockwise as far as it will go. If the handle looks like a lever, the handle needs to be parallel to the pipe.
Clogged Pipes
Clogged pipes are one of the most common causes of low water pressure. Clogs can form deep within your piping system, and even a small one can block the pipe enough to reduce your water pressure.
It can be difficult to locate the clog within your home’s piping system, so it is a good idea to call a professional for this type of plumbing repair. They have the tools and expertise necessary to efficiently locate and resolve the issue.
Faulty Fixtures
Fixtures such as showerheads or faucets often become clogged or faulty over time. They get a lot of use, so it only makes sense that they become blocked. Many times, a good cleaning and soaking will remedy the issue. Depending on the fixture’s degree of blockage or age, it might make more sense to simply replace it.
How a Professional Can Help
Nobody wants to deal with low water pressure. It is amazing how much it can affect our daily lives. Additionally, not everyone knows how or wants to try and resolve the issue themselves, and we understand that.
Santos Water Service & Drain in Toronto has been in the business for decades. If you are experiencing low water pressure or need an emergency plumber, our team of experts can quickly find and repair the issues.
We offer friendly, personable service and pride ourselves on the competitive pricing we offer. Get in touch with us today by calling 416-824-3352 or filling out our online form.