Maximizing Your Water Pressure

When outdoor temperatures drop, there is nothing we like more than a warm shower to get us ready for the day!  However, poor water pressure can quickly turn your morning routine from inspirational to inefficient.  To solve this daily dilemma, try one of our DIY solutions to these common low-water pressure causes.

Remove Mineral Deposit Build-Ups:  Overtime, mineral deposits can build-up in your pipes, causing clogs that result in lower water pressure.  Because these clogs most commonly affect faucets and showerheads, a thorough cleaning of each can typically resolve the issue.  To accomplish this, soak showerheads in a vinegar-and-water solution to dissolve mineral deposits.  However, in more severe situations mineral build-ups can partially block the flow of water through the pipes themselves.  If you suspect this might be the case, call us at Nowthen Plumbing to thoroughly assess the situation.

Identify Leaks: Low-water pressure can also be caused by damage to the pipe, such as a leak or crack.  To determine if you have pipe damage, read your water meter and then shut off your homes’ water taps. Refer back to your meter in two hours.  If your water usage has increased, you likely have a leak and need to contact a plumber to schedule a repair. Or the easier route if you think you have a leak is to call us and have us figure it out for you.

Plan Accordingly: Because most of us operate on a somewhat similar schedule throughout the day (showers in the morning, watering the lawn on the weekends, etc.), homes sharing a mutual water distribution pipe may experience water pressure variations.  With that in mind, take a look at whether or not your low-water pressure issues are occurring during peak usage hours.  If so, consider changing your schedule slightly.

Check Your Valves: Double check that all of your homes’ water valves are completely open to ensure that you benefitting from all potential water pressure.  To do so, locate each valve at your homes’ faucet bases and turn clockwise.