Why Is the Water Pressure So Low in My House?

Expecting a comfortable rush of warm water when you hop in the shower only to be met by a slow trickle can definitely set the tone for the day — and not in a good way.

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From limescale buildup and aging showerheads to serious plumbing issues, low water pressure can occur for a number of reasons.

Many different factors can lead to low water pressure in the home. For example, a sudden drop in hot water pressure may be due to an issue with your water heater that should be promptly addressed by a professional plumber.

Alternatively, limescale buildup on your showerhead or faucets can also cause water to trickle out slowly. In these instances, DIY remedies, such as treating the scale with lemon juice and vinegar or using a hand tool to remove the buildup, may be all you need to get your water flowing smoothly again. 

Additional causes of low water pressure in the house include the following.

Clogged Pipes

Unexpected water pressure drops are sometimes due to clogged pipes. In some cases, the blockage may be located deep in your underground plumbing pipes or sewer line. In addition to low water pressure, you may notice signs such as backed-up water in the sink or tub, strong odors coming from drains and slow-draining water. If you suspect a clogged pipe is the culprit for a sudden change in your home's water pressure, it's always best to schedule service with a professional plumber. 

Corroded Pipes

Pipe age, normal wear and tear and hard water are all common issues that can lead to pipe corrosion. Corrosion can cause pipes to become narrow over time, which can affect your home's water pressure. If your pipes are damaged or corroded, some additional issues that may pop up include discolored or rusty water and unusual noises coming from your pipes. Your tap water may also have an odd taste or odor. Corroded pipes typically require repair or replacement by a plumbing professional. 

Main Water Shutoff Valve Is Out of Position

If you've had a visit from the plumber in recent weeks or months, they may have moved your main water shutoff valve out of position to perform plumbing work. You should be able to fix this issue on your own by simply moving the valve's handle back into place. A wheel-style handle should be moved back into a full counter-clockwise position. If you have a lever-style handle, move the handle so it's completely parallel to the direction of the pipe. If you have trouble navigating your shutoff valve, you can always contact your plumber for assistance.

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Simultaneous Use of Multiple Hot Water Appliances

If you're running the dishwasher and washing clothes at the same time or two people are showering in different bathrooms, this can cause a sudden drop in water pressure. This can easily be remedied by using only one appliance at a time and limiting showers to one person at a time. 

Hard Water Sediment Buildup in Your Hot Water Heater

Sediment buildup is a common water heater issue that may result in low water pressure. If your plumbing system has hard water, this can cause sediment to build up in your water heater tank. Your water heater will have to work harder to provide hot water throughout the home, and this can lead to a significant water pressure dip. Rusty or cloudy water and banging noises coming from your water heater are a few more telltale signs of sediment buildup.