Nothing is more relaxing than a hot shower to start or end the day. However, low water pressure in your shower affects your shower experience and may indicate a more significant plumbing problem in your home. There are a variety of factors at play that could be causing the problem.
In this blog post, we will talk about the common causes of low water pressure in your shower, why this issue occurs, and how you can fix it. Read on to dive into the possible causes and solutions.
What Causes Low Water Pressure In The Shower?
It can be a water supply issue, a clog, or even a more serious plumbing problem. You may experience low water pressure in your house for several reasons. Understanding these causes can help you identify what might be happening. Below are some of the most common reasons behind low water pressure; check them out.
1. Clogged Showerhead
One of the most common culprits of low water pressure in your showerhead is when the little holes are clogged. Over time, mineral deposits from hard water can build up and obstruct the water flow. These deposits create blockages that reduce the pressure of the water coming through.
2. Issues With The Plumbing System
Another reason for low water pressure in the shower may be issues with the overall plumbing system. These include problems like pipe corrosion, leaks, or blockages in the pipes that supply water to your shower.
Suppose you experience low water pressure throughout your house. In that case, it may indicate a more serious problem in your plumbing system, such as a water leak from behind the wall or a malfunctioning pressure regulator.
3. Water Heater Problems
If you are specifically experiencing low hot water pressure in the shower, the issue may lie with your water heater. Sediment build-up or a malfunction in the heater can restrict hot water flow, leading to low pressure in your shower. Your water heater must be maintained regularly to prevent this from happening.
4. Pressure Regulator Failure
Your home's water pressure is controlled by a pressure regulator, which is designed to maintain the water pressure within a safe range. If this regulator fails, it can cause low water pressure in the shower. This problem often requires a professional plumber to assess and repair.
5. Municipal Water Supply Issues
In some cases, the problem may not be within your home's plumbing system at all. The reason why your water pressure is low in the shower could be due to a problem with the municipal water supply.
Water companies occasionally reduce the water pressure in the neighborhood for maintenance or during periods of high demand. While this is not something you can control, you can contact your water supplier to inquire about any issues in your area.
How To Fix Low Water Pressure In The Shower? 5 Steps!
Inspect for leaks, install a pump, and use a needle to unclog the showerhead holes, among others. The solution will depend on the root cause, but here are some steps you can take to try and restore proper water flow:
1. Clean the Showerhead
If the mineral build-up clogs your showerhead, cleaning it can often fix the problem. Turn off the water, remove the showerhead, and soak it in a mixture of vinegar and water for a few hours. Use a brush to scrub away any remaining deposits.
You can also use a sewing needle to clean each hole individually to ensure better water flow. Once cleaned, reattach the showerhead and check if the water pressure improves.
2. Check For Pipe Leaks
In case the low water pressure persists throughout your house, inspect your plumbing for leaks or signs of damage. Small leaks can significantly reduce water pressure in your shower and home. If you are unsure of plumbing basics, it might be best to hire a professional.
3. Inspect Your Water Heater
When the issue is limited to hot water, check your hot water heat system for any problems, such as sediment build-up or a malfunctioning valve. Annually flushing the water heater can help prevent build-up and maintain proper water pressure.
4. Replace Or Adjust The Pressure Regulator
If you suspect the pressure regulator is the issue, it is important to have it professionally checked. A faulty regulator may need to be repaired or replaced to restore normal water pressure.
5. Install A Booster Pump
When the low water pressure in your home is widespread and not limited to the shower, you may want to install a water pressure booster pump. This device will increase the pressure in your plumbing system and improve water flow in showers, faucets, and other fixtures.
In case none of the above solutions work, contact your municipal water supplier to see if there are any known issues in your area. In some cases, they may be able to adjust the pressure or advise you on how to increase low water pressure in the shower.
And if the issue persists, it is always a good idea to consult the plumber cost per hour to ensure your system is functioning correctly and to fix once and for all the low water pressure in your shower so you can go back to relaxing showers in no time!
