Reasons for Low Water Pressure in the Home

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Common Reasons for Poor Water Pressure

There are many reasons for poor water pressure. Some issues just require tinkering. Others require immediate professional attention. One can ensure their home's well-being by knowing the reasons behind poor water pressure. They can also prevent rising energy costs, expensive repairs, and stress.

One may experience poor water pressure if:

Leaks Cause Water to Escape the Plumbing System

leaksPlumbing systems are complex systems of pipes, valves, and connectors. A leak in any component of the system can weaken water pressure. The less water in a system, the weaker the water pressure will be. The leak can also divert water from its destination (such as a faucet) and lead it elsewhere, like inside the home’s walls. Over time, this can lead to mold growth and other complications.

Reasons for pipe leaks include:

  • Rust: Over time, rust can compromise the pipe’s material, leading to leaks and burst pipes.
  • Root intrusion: Miami is home to many plants with intricate root systems. These roots can make their way inside pipes and cause leaks. They can also cause clogs––another cause of low water pressure.
  • Loose water connectors: At first glance, a loose water connector causes a few drips here and there. Yet, this can add up over time, leading to hundreds of gallons of wasted water and, in turn, poor water pressure.

These are just some reasons for leaks. A homeowner can prevent these issues by scheduling annual maintenance visits and installing a root barrier to protect underground pipes from intruding roots.

Clogs and Waste Buildup

Clogs and waste buildup obstruct the flow of water. Consider this scenario to understand more:

  • A homeowner turns on the shower.
  • Water comes from a groundwater source through the service line.
  • The water starts through the pipes, toward the shower, and past the water meter valve.
  • However, a clog obstructs the water’s flow, allowing a smaller amount through at a time.
  • Water trickles out of the showerhead–the opposite of what the homeowner wants.

Here, the homeowner should consult a trained professional because they have the expertise to fix clogs easily. Clogs and buildup can arise from various sources, ranging from root intrusion to septic tank waste buildup.

Broken Fixtures or Closed Valves

valveFixtures refer to things like showerheads, main water valves, faucets, drains––anything that allows the flow of water. Broken fixtures can stem from issues such as leaks, clogs, and corrosion. Without prompt attention, broken fixtures can waste water and affect the plumbing system’s operations.

Closed valves are a different matter. Valves regulate the flow of water. An open valve allows water to travel through the system. Closed valves don’t let water pass at all. Now that one knows the difference between broken fixtures and closed valves, here’s what to know:

  • A partially closed valve will allow some water to travel through the system––but not all of it.
  • Broken fixtures can’t take advantage of the water’s flow.
  • As noted, these problems will not fix their own. They require an expert’s help.

These are just some reasons why there may be the low water pressure in the shower – and the home’s other plumbing fixtures.

About Falcon Plumbing

Falcon Plumbing is a family-owned business with over 30 years of experience serving Miami, FL, and the surrounding areas. They provide upfront pricing, personal attention, and 24/7 emergency service at no extra charge. Call them today for plumbing services in Miami, FL.


Free Yourself and Ditch Low Water Pressure

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Don’t Get Dragged Down by Low Water Pressure 

It’s Valentine’s Day, and it's time to take inventory of the relationships that may be dragging people down. One of those is a homeowner’s relationship with low water pressure. 

Low water pressure can happen to anyone. When it happens, homeowners will be left to navigate a stinky mess. This Valentine’s Day, get help breaking up with low water pressure for good with help from local plumbers. Take their advice and water pressure worries kick it to the curb!

Source of Low Water Pressure

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A blockage always causes low water pressure in a home’s drains. Usually, the obvious giveaway that an appliance is blocked is standing water in a toilet or basin. But other signs can indicate that a problem is brewing as well. Some of these signs are:

  • Foul odors
  • Gurgling sounds
  • Slow flushes of toilets
  • Slow draining 
  • Backed up toilets
  • Backed up sinks
  • Sewage in bathtubs or floor drains

If any of these signs have started to manifest, then scheduling a drain cleaning is a good idea. Slow drains never fix themselves; they will always need some kind of attention to restore performance. 

Fixing Low Water Pressure

Drain cleaning from qualified professionals is the best way to fix low water pressure. A plumbing company specializing in drain cleaning will have the knowledge and tools to fix any drain problem fast. Among these tools are:

  • Hand-held pipe snake
  • Industrial pipe snakes for sewer lines
  • Hydrojetting machines
  • Tools to remove and clean P-traps
  • Expertise to pull toilets and look for debris in the trap

Useful Ideas for Preventing Low Water Pressure

Preventing low water means that homeowners will never have to deal with emergency drain cleanings ever again. Preventing low water pressure can be as simple as changing a few habits and practicing good drain care. Some ideas to help keep drains clean are: 

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  • Throw food scraps in the trash: Most clogs that happen in the kitchen can be traced back to food scraps. Even if a garbage disposal is in place and regularly used, food scraps can still be a problem. Potatoes, onions, coffee grounds, and eggshells are common contributors. 
  • Leave the lid down. The lid, or cover, of a toilet is meant to stop items from falling into the bowl. In many bathrooms, shelves are built above the toilet. Things will fall off of said shelf all too often, landing in the toilet. Additionally, if children are in the house, the lid prevents them from losing toys in the potty. 
  • Don’t put grease in the sink. Kitchen grease may be liquid when cooked, but it turns to a solid when it cools off. This means that each time grease is poured down the sink, it quickly hardens along the pipes’ inner walls. Over time, this constricts water flow through the pipe, leading to a nasty clog. 
  • Don’t use chemical drain cleaners. Chemical drain cleaners are dangerous and can cause damage to drains, even to the point that plumbers will have to replace large sections of the drain line. Calling a plumber first and getting routine drain cleaning will help prevent clogs. 

About Falcon Plumbing

Falcon Plumbing is a woman-owned business serving Miami since 1986. Friendly representatives always answer their phones. Their prompt and professional service is available 24 hours a day for emergencies and regular service. Call today to schedule expert drain cleaning services in Miami.