Common Causes of Water Pressure Issues

by Kevin Smith Author

Improper water pressure can be problematic, whether it's too low or too high. Some causes of water pressure issues may be easy to fix on your own, while others require the help of a plumber in Gainesville, GA. Here are some common causes of water pressure that's either too low or too high and what you or the plumber can do about it.

Low Water Pressure

The signs of low water pressure are usually easy to see, especially if the drop is sudden. The shower will feel weak or it will take a long time to fill a sink or the washing machine. You might even hear a whistling sound in the pipes when the water pressure is too low. There are a few different possible causes of low water pressure.

Pressure Regulator Problems

Your home has a pressure regulator, and if the setting is wrong on the regulator you'll experience low water pressure. You or a plumber can check the settings to make sure the settings are correct. A faulty pressure regulator can cause a sudden drop in pressure; fortunately, replacing the regulator is an easy fix for the plumber.

Hidden Leaks

Hidden leaks are another common cause of low water pressure, so it's important to have a plumber locate and repair any leaks before water damage spreads in your home.

Blockages

Blockages from debris or corrosion in the pipes can also cause your system to lose pressure. Some older pipes might simply be too small to handle the load, so you may have a more substantial plumbing repair to consider.

High Water Pressure

Low water pressure is a frustrating problem because it makes everyday household tasks take longer; however, high water pressure isn't something to be ignored either. If water is blasting out of your faucets or shower or if the water pressure seems irregular, your pressure is likely too high. This problem should be addressed because excessive water pressure damages can damage fixtures and make a leak and premature appliance breakdown more likely.

Location

In some cases, the location of your home can cause high water pressure, especially if you live at the bottom of a hill. The location of your home in relationship to fire hydrants or tall buildings is another factor, since the water company will usually set the pressure higher in these areas. The only way to solve this is to have a plumber in Gainesville, GA, install a water pressure regulator.