Dealing with low water pressure can be frustrating, especially when you’re expecting a steady stream of water, only to be met with a weak trickle. If you live in Phoenix, AZ, where water conservation is a priority, it’s important to strike a balance between responsible water use and ensuring your home’s water pressure is where it needs to be.
At AC by J, we understand that low water pressure is a common issue for many homeowners, but fortunately, it’s often a fixable problem. Let’s look into some of the most common causes of low water pressure and what you can do to resolve it.
What Causes Low Water Pressure?
Low water pressure can stem from several different sources. Understanding the underlying cause will help determine the best solution. Here are some of the most common reasons for water pressure issues in Phoenix homes:
- Clogged Pipes: Over time, mineral buildup, especially in areas with hard water like Phoenix, can accumulate inside your pipes, reducing the flow of water. This buildup restricts water movement and decreases pressure at the faucet or showerhead. In older homes, this can be especially problematic.
- Leaky Pipes: If your plumbing system has leaks, you’ll notice reduced water pressure. Leaks can occur anywhere along the water line, and even a small leak can significantly lower water pressure throughout the home. Leaks are also a waste of water, so they should be addressed promptly. Ask us about pipe leak repair!
- Faulty Pressure Regulator: Many homes in Phoenix have a pressure regulator installed. This device ensures water pressure stays within safe limits. If the regulator malfunctions, you might experience pressure that’s either too high or too low.
- Corroded Pipes: In older homes with galvanized steel plumbing, corrosion can build up inside the pipes over time. This restricts water flow, leading to lower water pressure. If corrosion is severe, repiping may be necessary.
- Municipal Water Supply Issues: Sometimes, low water pressure isn’t caused by anything within your home but rather from the municipal water supply. Water main breaks or high demand can reduce pressure, particularly in older parts of Phoenix with aging infrastructure.
- Partially Closed Valves: Another common cause of low water pressure is a partially closed valve. Whether it’s the main water shutoff valve or the valve at an individual fixture, if the valve isn’t fully open, water pressure will be reduced.
- Clogged or Dirty Fixtures: In some cases, the issue might not be with your pipes, but with the fixtures themselves. Over time, aerators in faucets or showerheads can become clogged with mineral deposits, reducing the water flow and pressure.
Fixing Low Water Pressure: A Step-by-Step Guide
If you’re experiencing low water pressure, the good news is that there are several steps you can take to troubleshoot and fix the problem. Below, we’ve outlined a step-by-step guide to help you identify and resolve the issue.
Step 1: Check Multiple Fixtures
The first thing to do is determine whether the issue is affecting the entire house or just specific fixtures. Turn on water at multiple faucets and showerheads to see if the low pressure is consistent throughout. If it’s isolated to one or two fixtures, the problem is likely related to a clogged aerator or showerhead. However, if the pressure is low across the entire home, you may be dealing with a more widespread issue in the plumbing system or with the municipal supply.
Step 2: Clean Clogged Aerators and Showerheads
Mineral deposits are a common culprit in Phoenix homes due to the city’s hard water. Over time, these deposits can clog faucet aerators and showerheads, leading to reduced water flow. To fix this, remove the aerator or showerhead, soak it in vinegar for about an hour, and use a small brush to scrub away any remaining debris. Once cleaned, reattach the aerator or showerhead and test the water pressure.
Step 3: Inspect Valves
Sometimes, the solution is as simple as ensuring all the valves in your home are fully open. Check your main water shutoff valve and the water supply valves at each fixture. If any of these are partially closed, it can restrict water flow and reduce pressure. Turn the valves counterclockwise to ensure they are fully open.
Step 4: Look for Leaks
Leaky pipes can cause a significant drop in water pressure, and they often go unnoticed. Inspect your home for any visible signs of leaks, such as wet spots on walls, ceilings, or under sinks. If you suspect a leak but can’t locate it, it’s best to call a professional plumber to perform a thorough inspection. A hidden leak can waste a lot of water and lead to costly damage if left untreated.
Step 5: Check Your Pressure Regulator
If your home has a pressure regulator, you’ll want to check if it’s functioning correctly. The regulator controls the pressure coming into your home from the city’s water supply. If it’s faulty, you might experience low pressure throughout your home. You can test it by attaching a water pressure gauge to an outdoor faucet and comparing the reading to the ideal range (usually between 60 and 75 PSI). If the reading is too low, the regulator may need adjusting or replacing.
Step 6: Flush the Water Heater
Another place where mineral buildup can cause low water pressure is inside your water heater. Sediment can accumulate in the tank, restricting water flow and reducing pressure. Flushing your water heater annually helps remove sediment and improve efficiency. If you haven’t done this in a while, or if you’re not sure how to do it, we recommend calling a professional to perform this service.
Step 7: Address Corroded Pipes
If your home has galvanized steel pipes and you’re experiencing low water pressure, corrosion may be the issue. Over time, corrosion builds up inside the pipes, narrowing the diameter and restricting water flow. In this case, repiping your home with newer materials like copper or PEX is the best solution to restore proper water pressure.
When to Call a Professional
While some low water pressure issues can be resolved with simple fixes, others require the expertise of a professional plumber. Here are a few situations where you should contact AC by J:
- You suspect a hidden leak: If you’re unable to locate the source of the problem or suspect a hidden leak, a professional inspection is necessary.
- Corroded or clogged pipes: If you have older plumbing and suspect corrosion or severe blockages, repiping may be required.
- Pressure regulator issues: Adjusting or replacing a faulty pressure regulator should be handled by a licensed plumber.
- Municipal water supply issues: If you believe the issue is related to the municipal water supply, we can help verify this and provide solutions for mitigating the problem in your home.
Preventing Low Water Pressure in the Future
To avoid future water pressure issues, we recommend the following preventive measures:
- Regular maintenance: Schedule routine plumbing inspections to identify potential issues before they become major problems.
- Install a water softener: Phoenix’s hard water can contribute to mineral buildup in your pipes. A water softener can help prevent this and prolong the life of your plumbing.
- Flush your water heater annually: Regularly flushing your water heater helps prevent sediment buildup that can affect water pressure.
Contact Your Low Water Pressure Experts
Low water pressure can be more than just an inconvenience—it could signal underlying problems with your plumbing system. By following the steps in this guide, you can troubleshoot and resolve many common causes of low water pressure in your Phoenix home. However, for more complex issues, it’s always best to call a professional. At AC by J, we’re here to help you with all your plumbing needs, ensuring your water pressure is back to where it should be, so you can enjoy the comforts of home without any interruptions. Ask us about our plumbing repair solutions!
If you’re struggling with low water pressure, contact AC by J today. Our team of licensed plumbers is ready to assist you with fast, reliable service.
