Water pressure problems: causes and solutions

If you’re experiencing problems with the water pressure in your home, various factors may be to blame. While it’s often possible to resolve the problem yourself, a lack of water pressure may also be a sign of a significant malfunction that requires the services of a qualified plumber.

What are the causes of water pressure problems?

If you’ve noticed that the pressure of the water coming out of your faucet isn’t as strong as usual, it’s well worth the trouble to investigate the source of the problem.

Here are a few things you can check yourself to help you determine whether it’s a minor problem or a major one.

Test the pressure of all your faucets

Check to see if the lack of pressure is affecting all of your faucets (in the kitchen, bathroom, outdoors, etc.).

Turn on the cold water and then the hot water for each faucet. If the drop in pressure only affects the hot water, the problem is almost certainly related to your water heater.

If your water heater is to blame

Your water heater isn’t infallible; after years of loyal service, it isn’t uncommon for it to show signs of obstruction or corrosion. If you believe that your water heater is causing your water pressure problems, contact your plumber. Trying to repair a water heater when you aren’t a specialist can prove to be risky. On the other hand, your plumber is perfectly equipped to determine whether it needs to be repaired or replaced.

Look for hard water deposits

If the problem is limited to a single faucet, either the faucet or the filter may be clogged with hard water deposits. To find out for sure, follow the steps below:

• Unscrew the end piece of the faucet.
• Check the filter for hard water deposits.
• If there is a lot of scale, submerge the end piece and filter in a solution of white vinegar or replace the filter.
• Before screwing the end piece back on, turn on the faucet. If the water pressure is still weak, the problem isn’t with the filter.

Determine if the problem is affecting the whole system

If the lack of water pressure doesn’t appear to be confined to a single faucet, the problem must be affecting your home’s water system in its entirety. In that case, you can do the following:

• Inspect the pressure regulator and the shut-off valve; modify the water flow if possible, and if the valve is defective, replace it.
• Look for water leaks (in the toilets or elsewhere).
• Check the water heater—if the low pressure is affecting only the hot water, the shut-off valve may be partially closed.

Look for water leaks

Over time, toilets are particularly prone to leaks, whether visible or not. These leaks lead not only to higher water bills but also to reduced water pressure.

How to verify if one of your toilets has a leak

• Remove the lid of the toilet tank.
• Put a few drops of food coloring in the water.
• Let it stand for one hour.
• If the color has disappeared, a leak is responsible! In that case, you will need to replace either the gasket or the entire flushing mechanism.

You may also find water leaks in your basement or your pipes. If you hear dripping water, you may find leaks that are often easy to repair.

However, if you still have a problem with your water pressure despite all your efforts, contact Plomberie Roger Chayer. Our expert team is available to assist you seven days a week.