Ever come home after a long day, dreaming only of a soothing shower? You turn on the taps, expecting bliss, but instead find just a trickle of water. Spotting a low-pressure shower can be tough, especially if you’re used to strong water pressure. And when everything else in your house is running fine, it’s puzzling to figure out what’s going on.
A low-pressure shower is often the result of a plumbing hiccup. Sometimes it’s a simple fix; other times, it’s a bigger hassle. Either way, it’s crucial to sort it out pronto to avoid potential damage to your home and plumbing system.
Overlooking issues like low water pressure could mean there’s more at play, possibly even a leak in your main line. It might be wise to bring in a professional plumber to pinpoint the issue and fix it for good.
What causes low water pressure in the shower?
For several reasons, you would have difficulty having a shower that doesn’t provide an adequate water flow.
Water-saving showerheads
In older houses, you might find a flow restrictor fitted to your shower head. It’s meant to save water—good for the earth and your bills—but not so much for water pressure. Check its condition and consider a replacement if it’s affecting your shower experience.
Need more pressure? You can remove that water-saving gadget from your shower head with a pair of pliers. This can amp up your water flow. And if you’re keen on saving water, consider getting a newer low-flow device that fits your needs better.
Debris
Mineral deposits, soap, and other grime can clog your shower head over time, creating a barrier that cuts down on water pressure. A good clean can often resolve this issue—stronger spray, hassle-free.
This can be easily fixed by simply cleaning the shower heads. First, start by unscrewing the shower head and taking apart the different compartments. Inspect the shower head and remove any debris from the water holes. You can use a toothpick, pin, or toothbrush to do this. It is also recommended to soak the head in a bowl of vinegar overnight. The flow of water should increase after a good cleaning.
Water main valve
The water pressure regulator keeps your home within a safe water pressure range (usually 46-60 psi). Unfortunately, this critical component can fail, allowing the pressure to get excessively low or high. The regulator is typically located on the water supply line before it enters the home and should only be replaced by a qualified plumber.
If you have issues with the pressure in the shower, it may be a problem with the main water valves and the shower valve. These control the pressure and flow of hot water and cold water supply lines throughout your property.
You can inspect the main valve by locating it near your water meter. Alternatively, you can find the shower valve in the basement, crawl space or access panel behind your shower.
Low hot water pressure could be caused by shutting valves or not opening all the way. Turning these valves counterclockwise can increase water flow and improve water supply through the pipes.
Failing pipes
Check your water pipes for any obstruction or failure in the pipe, such as cracks or rust. Healthy pipes installed correctly can improve water supply flow throughout your home.
Hearing noisy banging inside your wall may indicate leaking, clogged, or loose pipes that need replacement.
How do I fix the low water pressure in my shower head?
Finding why your shower pressure is low is the first step in fixing your low-pressure shower problem.
Clean your shower head.
Showerheads can easily remove and clean small mineral deposits and soap and scum. It could take some time and a few tries, but you will increase your shower’s lifespan and strengthen your water pressure.
Remove Flow restrictor
You can also check the flow restrictor by dismantling your shower head and removing or replacing it with a newer model.
Check Valves
By inspecting the shut-off valve, you can ensure that the water supply to your bathroom taps and shower is not restricted. Turn the valve anti-clockwise to open it.
Pipe Inspection
The condition of your water pipes is crucial for solid water pressure. If not appropriately inspected by a professional plumber, hot and cold water pipes can cause low pressure and other major plumbing problems, such as leaks.
Need a Plumbing Service?
Call a Sydney plumber
An experienced plumbing team will find the best solution to increase the pressure in your shower and improve your showering experience. An excellent local plumber can service all fittings and fixtures around your bathroom to ensure that all plumbing and water lines work in the best condition.
If you need help with any plumbing issues for showers, taps, toilets and other issues, use a reputable, fully licensed team with experience repairing faulty or low-flow showerheads.
