Low water pressure isn’t just annoying. It can cost you money! Low water pressure increases the time it takes to shower, wash dishes, and water outdoor plants, and it also significantly multiplies how much water you use for these everyday chores. You’re going to have the water on much longer if not much is coming out.
Low water pressure can be caused by a lot of different things, and not all of these problems require calling professional help. You may be able to resolve the problem on your own!
- Check Your Water Valves
Most homes have two valves that control the main water supply. There’s the customer valve, located in your water meter box. And the other is the home valve, located on the exterior hose faucet at the front of your house. Opening either of these valves ever so slightly can increase your water pressure.
- Check for Leaky Pipes
Leaking pipes can also wreak havoc with your water pressure. Determining if you have a leak can be difficult. The best way to check is to check your water meter. Shut off all faucets both outside and inside your home. Read the meter and leave the water off for at least two hours. (You’re going to have to go to the bathroom BEFORE this experiment, so have the family plan ahead.) Then go back and read the meter again. If your usage has gone up, then yes, there’s a good chance you’ve got a leaking pipe somewhere. If you do have a leak, call Ensor right away to prevent extensive damage.
- Use Water at a Different Time of Day
If everyone in your area is using water at the same time, it could lower everyone’s water pressure. If you notice changes in your water pressure only at certain times of day or specific days of the week, it could mean that you and your neighbors are on similar schedules…which is sort of cute, but not ideal. So increasing your water pressure could be as simple as varying your water usage by showering at night, running the dishwasher right before bed, or putting in a load of laundry as you leave for work in the morning.
- Call a Pro to Check Your Pressure Regulator
Your water pressure regulator is a small, bell-shaped device that is usually located just below the front hose connection on your house. It’s usually preset between 45 and 60 psi. If you think your water pressure troubles originate with the regulator, it’s best to call us to fix it. This is an easy, inexpensive fix for us, but if you’re unfamiliar with what the regulator is or how it works, you could cause more damage if you try to fix it yourself.
- Are Your Pipes Galvanized?
Maryland has a lot of older homes with galvanized iron pipes, which are prone to mineral deposits that build up over time. Unfortunately, this buildup is unavoidable, and it can cause structural damage and make pipes more prone to cracking and leaking. If your house is old or has iron pipes, call us so we can assess the extent of the problem and estimate the cost of repairing your existing pipes or replacing them with newer pipes.
Need a reliable plumber? The pressure’s off when you call Ensor!
Ensor Plumbing is a 3rd generation, woman-owned, family operated business serving Reisterstown since 1961! Get to know us BEFORE you have a plumbing emergency. 410-429-4959. Or request service right here from our website.