Most people don't give much thought to their plumbing as they get ready each day until they experience minimal water pressure. Low water pressure is one of the most common reasons why homeowners call a plumber. When you can confirm that your home’s water meter valve and main house shutoff valve are fully open, you are likely dealing with a repair problem. The following are some of the common causes of low water pressure. 

Why Do I Have Low Water Pressure?

1. Faulty Fixture

If low water pressure only seems to affect a single fixture in your house, then the fixture itself is likely to blame. Faucets and showerheads can become clogged or faulty due to sediment buildup, particularly if you live in an area with hard water. Usually, cleaning out the fixture’s aerator or screen or replacing the fixture entirely resolves the issue.

2. Failing Pressure Regulator

For house-wide pressure problems, your home’s pressure regulator valve could be to blame. This device is typically located near the pipe that brings water into your home, helping to keep water pressure within a set range of 52–75 PSI. A failing pressure regulator could cause drastic increases and decreases in water pressure, but your local plumber can easily replace the malfunctioning valve.

3. Pipe Repair Problems

Over time, your home’s pipes can become corroded. Steel pipes, in particular, are vulnerable to corrosion. This results in buildup inside the lines that can restrict water flow, which can be worsened by scale accumulation due to hard water. This causes water pressure to decline gradually, rather than causing a surprise, drastic drop. While plumbers can clean out minor corrosion and scale buildup, severely corroded pipes usually require replacement to get water flowing normally again.

Whether you need help diagnosing low water pressure or installing a garbage disposal, Foster Plumbing Inc. in Tucson, AZ, can get the job done. With over 30 years of experience, their plumbers are available 24/7 to provide a fast, reliable response to any plumbing emergency you might encounter. Visit them online to learn more about their services, or call (520) 603-3817 to request a quote.