What to Do About Low Water Pressure – Sobieski Services | DE, NJ, PA, MD

What to Do About Low Water Pressure

Word Info in a Circle

Normal residential water pressure averages about 40 to 50 PSI. When water pressure in your home drops below that range, generally you notice it. First, water flow out of faucets and showerheads seems less forceful. You’ll also notice that the washing machine tends to take an extra long time to fill before wash and rinse cycles commence. A qualified plumber can test the pressure at various locations in the house to narrow down the source. Here are some of the causes he might discover.

  • Defective regulator — Pressure in the main municipal water line is too high for household use. Therefore, an adjustable regulator in your water meter steps the pressure down to 40 to 50 PSI. If this regulator is misadjusted or defective, it may be reduce pressure too much.
  • Mineral deposits — Most municipal water contains dissolved minerals which gradually form deposits in your main water supply line or individual supply lines to certain fixtures. As the pipe diameter narrows, flow is diminished and pressure drops. Re-piping certain spans is usually necessary.
  • Leaky supply line — If the leak is in the buried portion of your main water line, visible evidence might be limited to a patch of soggy ground. Turn off all water sources in the house and record the meter positions displayed on your water meter. Come back in an hour and check it again. If the meter has changed, you’ve got a hidden leak somewhere. Call a plumber.
  • Clogged filter — If your plumbing incorporates a canister-style whole-house water filter on the main water line, this may obstruct flow and reduce pressure. Filters can rapidly become clogged by sediment—even if the filter’s been recently changed. An surge in sediment from some external source such as flushing nearby fire hydrants may prematurely clog the filter.

At Sobieski Services, Inc., our goal is to help our customers in Delaware, Pennsylvania, Maryland and New Jersey learn more about energy and home comfort issues — especially HVAC and plumbing issues — so that they can save money and live in healthier, more comfortable homes.

Photo Credit: Svilen Milev/FreeImages.com

Service Coverage Map

Check Out Our Incredible Offers!

Book Now