When we say that water is vital, we really mean it! When our water systems malfunction, all sorts of daily activities, such as showering, washing dishes, and even cooking, can grind to a halt.
One of the most inconvenient water-related issues is a sudden pressure drop.
If your water pressure suddenly drops below the standard 80 PSI, it could be caused by several factors, ranging from internal plumbing issues to problems with your local water main.
All in all, the problem is the same—your water pressure suddenly dropped significantly, which can be bothersome at best and bring your day to a stop at worst. Therefore, it’s best to figure out the cause and fix it right away, as otherwise, the issue can develop and worsen.
In that light, we are here to discuss everything you need to know about low water pressure in your house, why it dropped all of a sudden, and DIY tips and tricks to troubleshoot the issues from home.
Common Causes of Sudden Low Water Pressure
Low water pressure can be caused by a wide range of factors; however, there are some common causes to keep an eye out for.
Plumbing Issues
One of the most common causes of sudden low water pressure is an issue within your plumbing system. This can manifest in several ways, but they can all lead to a sudden drop in water pressure and continue to cause problems if not promptly fixed.
1. Leaky Pipes or Fixtures
One of the most common causes of sudden drops in water pressure is a leaky pipe or fixture. While a leak may seem like a relatively minor defect in your plumbing, even a small leak can cause a noticeable reduction in water pressure and lead to a sudden drop.
To remedy this, we suggest checking for damp spots or unexplained puddles near your pipes and fixtures. These are typically indicative of a leak somewhere in the system and can explain why your water pressure has suddenly dropped.
2. Clogged Pipes or Fixtures
Another common cause of a sudden drop in water pressure could be a clog in your pipes or fixtures. While you might think pipes would be relatively unexposed to external elements, there are several ways that water flow can become obstructed by a clog. Mineral deposits, debris, and tree roots that find their way into the pipes often cause clogs, which reduce the flow of water and cause a drop in pressure.
Furthermore, if you have older steel pipes and hard water runs through them, they can rust over time. The accumulated rust might break off and get stuck somewhere inside the pipe, resulting in a blockage. Similarly, little pieces of scale might build up and break off, causing a clog. These clogs restrict the flow of water and can cause the overall pressure to significantly and suddenly drop.
3. Malfunctioning Pressure Regulator
A more serious cause of a sudden drop in water pressure is a malfunctioning pressure regulator. A pressure regulator controls the flow of water throughout your pipes, ensuring it stays at a consistent and safe level. If it malfunctions, it will not regulate your water pressure correctly, leading to low pressure. If you live in an older home, you may not have a pressure regulator, as they are a modern plumbing invention.
Unfortunately, regulators need adjusting or replacing over time, and it is important that you properly maintain yours to ensure that your water pressure stays consistent. Common signs of a failing regulator include inconsistent water pressure or low water pressure, especially when using multiple faucets at once.
4. Partially Closed Valves
For water pressure to be maintained, the water needs to have unobstructed access within your pipes so that it can consistently flow. Pipes typically have valves that control the water flow and allow maintenance and repairs to be easily carried out.
It is not uncommon for the main shut-off valve or the water meter valve to be accidentally left partially closed after maintenance or repairs. If this occurs, the flow of water will be partially obstructed, causing a drop in water pressure.
To check whether this is the cause of the drop in your water pressure, locate your shut-off and water meter valves. They should have handles visible from the outside of the pipe. The handle should be fully in line with the flow path of the water, and if it is not, moving the handle to the correct position may help resolve your low water pressure problem.
5. Water Main Breaks or Maintenance
Sometimes, the water main that supplies water to your house breaks, which can reduce the pressure in your pipes. Additionally, if your local authority is carrying out water main maintenance, this can also obstruct the flow and cause a drop in pressure.
To determine whether this might be the cause of your low water pressure, check with your neighbors to see if they are also experiencing the same issue, or call your local water authority, who can clarify whether a problem with the water main is the cause.
6. High Demand During Peak Hours
Just as multiple users sharing the same WiFi network can slow down the internet speed, multiple users drawing from a water main at the same time can slow the flow, causing low water pressure. Increased water usage in your neighborhood during peak hours, such as mornings or evenings, can temporarily reduce water pressure in homes. This is particularly an issue in urban areas where many households are connected to one water main.
Well Water System Issues (if applicable)
For those who get their water from a well, experiencing a sudden drop in water pressure is not unusual. In most cases, this problem can be caused by various factors. However, it’s not always easy to fix, and it might require some creative thinking or the help of a professional.
1. Well Pump Problems
A common cause of sudden low water pressure for those who get their water from a well can be a malfunctioning pump or low water levels in the well.
You will need to check the pressure gauge located on the water pump. It is important to know exactly how much PSI is in the water flowing through your pipes. If the PSI is below 30 and the pump is not operating, then you have a problem.
Pumps can be quite a headache when not working properly, so it is important that you perform regular maintenance on the pump to ensure it stays functional and doesn’t cause any issues.
2. Clogged Well Filters or Screens
Another issue unique to well water systems that can cause a sudden drop in water pressure is a clogged well filter or screen. If excess debris, sand, or sediment builds up in the filter, it can cause a clog and reduce your water pressure.
To avoid this, it is vital that you regularly clean and replace your filters to maintain good water pressure and avoid experiencing a sudden drop in water flow.
Troubleshooting and Identifying the Cause
Before calling a plumber, it is always worth attempting to identify the cause of the pressure drop and try to troubleshoot it yourself.
Check for Obvious Signs
Often, the cause of your sudden drop in water pressure can be easily identified, provided that you know what to look for. Checking for obvious signs should be your first step.
When doing your initial checks, always begin by listening for running water to identify potential leaks. You can also find leaks in hidden areas (such as inside walls or under floors) by spotting damp spots or mold. Inspecting visible pipes and fixtures for signs of rust, damage, or mineral deposits can also help you determine the cause of the pressure drop.
Furthermore, make sure that your main water valve and water meter valve are fully opened. If they are left partially closed, they could be causing low water pressure.
Finally, it is worth checking with your local water authority, as they can tell you whether there is a municipal supply issue causing the low pressure.
Isolate the Problem
Isolating the problem and figuring out which parts of your house are affected is also a good step, as this can indicate whether it is a problem you can fix yourself or if you need professional help.
Testing the water pressure at different faucets and fixtures around your house will help you figure out what the problem might be.
If just one faucet is affected, it might be due to a clog or leak in your plumbing. The situation gets worse if the water pressure drops suddenly in an entire section of the house, as this means one whole water line may be blocked by something.
If your water pressure suddenly drops throughout the whole household, you might be experiencing a glitch in the water supply system, which is a problem you cannot fix yourself.
For those on a well system, checking the pressure gauge on the pump and listening for the pump to activate when a faucet is turned on can indicate the severity of the problem.
If you notice that low pressure only affects hot water, your water heater may be the cause of the pressure drop, especially if the heater is experiencing sediment buildup, as this restricts water flow.
DIY Fixes for Simple Issues
Here are some DIY fixes for simple issues that often cause low water pressure:
Clearing Clogged Aerators
If your aerators have become clogged, it is a simple fix to get them working again. All you need to do is unscrew the aerator and give it a clean, making sure it is free from debris and mineral deposits. To clean the aerator, you may want to soak it in vinegar or a descaling solution to remove tough mineral buildup.
Adjusting the Pressure Regulator
Another quick and simple DIY fix that could remedy your pressure issues is adjusting the pressure regulator. Locate your pressure regulator and unscrew the locknut. Then, slowly turn the knob until your desired pressure is reached. Tighten the locknut and test your water pressure to ensure it is at the preferred level.
Make sure you do not set the pressure too high, as this could damage your plumbing or cause leaks.
Replacing a Clogged Showerhead
If your showerhead is affected by low water pressure, it may be caused by a clog, which means you will need to replace the unit.
To replace a clogged showerhead, turn it counterclockwise until it detaches. Then, remove the shower arm and take off the cover plate before cleaning the area with a cloth. Apply thread seal tape around the shower arm thread, and then screw on your new cover plate, shower arm, and finally the showerhead.
Opening Partially Closed Valves
Another DIY step that could potentially fix your water pressure issues is to open any partially closed valves. The common culprits are the main shut-off valve and the water meter valve. The former is usually located in an obvious spot, such as under your kitchen sink or in an airing cupboard. The latter valve is typically found at the point where the water supply reaches your property.
Once you have found the valves, check that the handles are in line with the flow of the water, as this means they are fully open.
When To Call a Plumber
If your DIY fixes aren’t working and you are still struggling with low water pressure, it might be time to call a plumber. For example, if you are experiencing persistent or severe low pressure, or you suspect a leak, the best step is to water line repair expert to take a look.
Ultimately, if you are unsure about an issue or feel that it is beyond your expertise, your best option is to call a professional, as they are trained to properly solve these kinds of problems and can get your water pressure back to normal in no time.
Conclusion
Low water pressure can be caused by a variety of problems, ranging from DIY-fixable issues to more serious plumbing problems. If you have experienced a sudden drop in water pressure, try a simple troubleshooting DIY fix first, as this could save you a lot of time and money. However, if the issue persists or seems complex, the advice of a professional is always recommended.
No one enjoys low water pressure, so make sure you act quickly if a problem does arise so you can experience the relief of proper water flow and a functioning plumbing system!