Few things are more frustrating than stepping into the shower and being greeted by a disappointing trickle of water. Whether it’s in the kitchen sink, bathroom faucet, or entire home, low water pressure can disrupt daily routines and signal deeper plumbing issues.
At Plumber Services, we help homeowners and businesses diagnose and fix water pressure problems quickly and professionally. In this guide, we’ll explain why your water pressure might be low, how to troubleshoot it, and when to call in the experts.
🚿 What Is Considered Low Water Pressure?
Water pressure is typically measured in pounds per square inch (PSI). Most residential plumbing systems operate between 40–60 PSI. If your pressure drops below 40 PSI, you may notice:
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Slow-flowing taps or showerheads
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Toilets that refill slowly
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Washing machines that take longer to run cycles
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Weak garden hose flow
The causes can range from simple clogs to major pipe problems—but all are fixable with the right approach.
🔍 Common Causes of Low Water Pressure
1. Clogged Faucets or Showerheads
Mineral buildup or debris in aerators and nozzles can restrict water flow in individual fixtures.
How to fix it:
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Unscrew the faucet aerator or showerhead.
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Soak it in vinegar overnight to dissolve scale.
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Scrub with a toothbrush and reinstall.
2. Partially Closed Valves
Your home has several water shutoff valves. If even one is slightly closed, it can limit pressure throughout the system.
How to fix it:
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Check the main shutoff valve (usually near your water meter or where the main pipe enters your home).
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Ensure it’s fully open (turn counterclockwise if it’s a wheel valve or parallel to the pipe if it’s a ball valve).
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Also check individual fixture shutoff valves under sinks and toilets.
3. Corroded or Old Pipes
Older galvanized steel pipes can corrode from the inside, reducing internal diameter and water flow.
How to fix it:
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This usually requires repiping sections of your plumbing with copper or PEX.
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Contact Plumber Services for a professional pipe inspection and replacement options.
4. Leaks in the Plumbing System
Hidden leaks waste water and reduce available pressure at the tap. Even small leaks behind walls or under floors can cause noticeable pressure drops.
How to fix it:
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Monitor your water meter with all water off—if it moves, you likely have a leak.
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Look for wet spots, mold growth, or a drop in pressure in isolated areas.
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Schedule leak detection services with a licensed plumber to locate and repair the issue.
5. Faulty Pressure Regulator
Many homes have a pressure-reducing valve (PRV) that controls how much water pressure comes in from the main line. A failing regulator can cause pressure that’s too high—or too low.
How to fix it:
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If all fixtures are affected and pressure is too low, a faulty PRV could be the issue.
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Replacing it requires a professional, as it involves adjustments to your main water line.
6. Municipal Supply Issues
Sometimes the problem isn’t in your home—it’s with the city’s water supply. Maintenance, water main breaks, or high demand can reduce incoming pressure.
How to fix it:
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Ask neighbors if they’re experiencing the same problem.
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Contact your local water utility to report issues or confirm scheduled work.
7. Shared Plumbing Lines
In multi-family homes or older neighborhoods, several homes may share water lines. Peak usage times (like mornings or evenings) can reduce available water pressure.
How to fix it:
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Consider installing a water pressure booster pump to improve supply during peak demand.
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Discuss shared line upgrades with your utility provider or HOA.
🧰 How to Test Your Water Pressure at Home
You can check your home’s water pressure with a simple pressure gauge from a hardware store:
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Turn off all water-using appliances.
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Attach the gauge to an outdoor hose bib or laundry faucet.
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Open the faucet fully.
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Read the pressure. Anything below 40 PSI is considered low.
If the reading is high at this point but still weak at fixtures, the issue is likely internal (clogs, pipes, or valves).
🏠 Low Water Pressure in One Fixture vs. the Whole House
If just one fixture has low pressure:
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The problem is likely localized—think clogged aerators, blocked supply lines, or malfunctioning valves.
If all fixtures are affected:
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This could indicate a broader issue like a failed PRV, corroded piping, or a mainline leak.
Need help pinpointing the problem? Our experienced team at Plumber Services can perform a whole-home pressure assessment.
💧 How to Fix Low Water Pressure (Step-by-Step)
Here’s a quick troubleshooting checklist:
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✅ Check all valves (main shutoff, meter valve, fixture shutoffs)
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✅ Inspect faucet aerators and shower heads
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✅ Test water pressure with a gauge
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✅ Look for visible leaks or signs of water damage
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✅ Check with your neighbors or city utility
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✅ Call a plumber for further diagnostics if needed
🧑🔧 When to Call a Professional Plumber
If DIY steps don’t solve the issue—or if the problem involves your main line, water heater, or internal piping—it’s time to call in the pros.
At Plumber Services, we provide:
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🔍 Advanced leak detection
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🚿 Pipe cleaning and repiping
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⚙️ Pressure regulator inspections
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💧 Water pressure booster pump installation
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🛠️ Fixture and valve repair or replacement
We’ll identify the root cause of your low water pressure and restore full flow fast.
💬 Final Thoughts
Low water pressure is more than a nuisance—it can be a sign of larger plumbing issues that require prompt attention. Whether it’s a simple fix or a complex repair, the team at Plumber Services is here to help.
Need reliable water pressure restoration?
📞 Call us now or Book an appointment online. We’re available for same-day service and 24/7 emergencies.
