Anyone who’s had low water pressure knows how much of a pain it can be. A weak shower, a trickling tap, or a washing machine that takes forever to fill can all be signs that your home’s got a pressure problem. Low water pressure can cost you money and damage your appliances. But what’s causing it exactly? And what can you do about it?
First, Check for Problems with the Stopcock
One of the most common reasons for low water pressure is that your stopcock is either faulty or not fully open. As you probably know, your stopcock controls the main water supply to your home. If it’s not fully open, your pressure will be lower than it should be.
How to Fix It:
Check the stopcock, usually found under the kitchen sink or outside. If it’s partially closed, turn it fully open and see if your pressure improves. If you find your stopcock is fully open and your water pressure still isn’t up to scratch, then it’s time to consider other causes.
Leaking Pipes Can Cause Low Water Pressure
A leaking pipe comes with a whole host of problems. It can waste water and damage your home, but it’s also a reason you might be experiencing low water pressure. Even a small crack can make a big difference, especially if the leak is hidden underground or behind a wall.
How to Fix It:
Look for damp patches, mould, or a sudden, unexpected jump in your water bill. If you reckon you’ve got a leak but can’t find it, a plumber can almost certainly locate the issue.
It Could Be a Faulty Water Pressure Regulator
First off, not all homes have a water pressure regulator, but if yours does, it could be the culprit. It’s essentially a device that controls the pressure coming into your home. If it isn’t working properly, then you might end up with either low water pressure or a surge that could damage your pipes.
How to Fix It:
Check if you have a water pressure regulator – it’s usually found near the mains supply. If your pressure drops a lot suddenly, the regulator might need to be adjusted or replaced. Call a plumber to test and replace it if needed.
Check for Blocked Pipes or Fixtures
Limescale, rust, or debris can clog up your pipes over time. If it’s only your taps or showerheads that are showing signs of low water pressure then the problem might be localised. But if it’s widespread, the pipes themselves could be obstructed by buildup.
How to Fix It:
A quick, simple way to check your tap is by unscrewing the aerator from the tap and cleaning it out. If that doesn’t work, descaling solutions can help break down limescale. If you think you’ve got more serious blockages, a plumber may need to powerflush your system or replace sections of your piping.
Is Your Water Pump Faulty?
Some homes have to rely on a water pump for consistently good pressure. If your water pressure has suddenly dropped and you know you have a pump installed, it could be the water pump that’s failing.
How to Fix It:
Locate your pump – usually, these are by your cold water tank or where the water supply enters the house – and check if the pump is running properly. If it’s making unusual noises, switching on and off erratically, or not running at all, it might be time to get in touch with a plumber.
It Might Be an Issue With Your Water Supplier
Sometimes, the reason for your low water pressure isn’t a problem with your home at all. Water companies carry out maintenance, fix leaks, and adjust pressure levels in the mains. If you’ve lost pressure, it could be due to work in your area.
How to Fix It:
Check with your neighbours if they’re having the same issue. If they are, check with your water supplier. They should be able to tell you if work is affecting your supply. According to Ofwat, for planned water interruptions of more than four hours, your water company needs to give you 48 hours’ notice and is obliged to provide you with a replacement water supply.
Want to Fix Your Low Water Pressure? We’ve Got You Covered.
At ECS Plumbing, we handle everything from leaking pipes to full water pressure solutions. It doesn’t matter if it’s a faulty water pump, a hidden leak, or an issue with your water pressure regulator; our engineers are ready to help. We offer expert diagnosis and repairs across Hampshire, keeping your water flowing properly.
Book an engineer today or get in touch with any questions. Call us on 01420 571000, drop us an email, or use our online contact form – we’ll get you sorted.
FAQs
Why is my shower water pressure low, but my taps are fine?
This usually means the issue is with the shower itself. It could be a clogged showerhead, a faulty mixer valve, or a pressure-limiting device inside the unit. Cleaning the showerhead or replacing parts can often fix the problem.
Can low water pressure damage appliances?
Yes. Some modern appliances, like dishwashers and washing machines, need a minimum water pressure to function properly. If the pressure is too low, they might struggle to fill, take longer to complete cycles or fail to work altogether.
Does a water pump always fix low water pressure?
Not always. A water pump can boost pressure, but if there’s an underlying issue – like a leaking pipe or a blocked supply – it won’t solve the problem. It’s best to diagnose the cause before installing a pump.
Is low water pressure a sign of a burst pipe?
It can be, but not always. A sudden, severe drop in pressure, especially with visible signs of a leak, could indicate a burst, but there are numerous other causes of low water pressure.
Further Reading
- Energy Saving Tips for the Winter
- 10 Reasons You Should Upgrade Your Fuse Box
- Plumbing Problems to Look Out for When You’re Moving House
- How to Unblock a Sink
