Low water pressure can occur in homes for a number of reasons. The most common is when you have multiple plumbing fixtures running at the same time, i.e. outside hose, shower and/or dishwasher, which reduces the water pressure to each fixture. There are other problems, however, that can cause low water pressure.

If you find the shower stops working completely, or indeed cuts off (very often when you have soap in your hair) this is the culprit. It’s usually the coil that breaks down. The coil (when working) lifts a plunger inside the solenoid valve and allows the water into the shower.

If you are only experiencing inconsistent water pressure in one fixture, try cleaning the fixture. Start by removing all debris, then clean thoroughly. If that doesn’t work, you may need to replace the entire fixture.

Low pressure in a shower can be caused by several issues such as a clogged showerhead, a worn-out mixing valve, closed valve, leaking pipe, or even a faulty water heater.

Leaky, corroded and clogged pipes can lead to low water pressure in the shower. The showerhead might be so old it needs to be replaced. The shower controls could also be responsible for flow issues.

How to increase water pressure in the shower

1. Clean your shower head.
2. Replace the shower head.
3. Install a shower pump.
4. Installing a pressurised unvented cylinder.
5. Install an electric shower with a cold water accumulator tank.
6. Install a power shower.

Limescale and sediment build-up causing low water pressure in the shower head: This can be fixed by simply cleaning or replacing the showerhead. Restrictive valves on the showerhead: A low-flow showerhead may have been fitted to your shower, or your showerhead may have a valve that restricts the flow of water.

Look on the main supply pipe near your water meter for a conical valve that has a bolt sticking out of the cone. To raise pressure, turn the bolt clockwise after loosening its locknut.

Measure Water Pressure Tighten the gauge by hand and open the faucet all the way. Look at the gauge to determine the pressure. An ideal reading is between 45 and 55 psi. If the pressure is below 40 psi or above 80 psi, you should take action.

If the low water pressure seems restricted to a single faucet or showerhead, the problem isn’t with your pipes or water supply, but with the fixture itself. If it’s a sink, the most common causes are a clogged aerator or clogged cartridge. These cloudy spots block the flow of water and decrease water pressure.

Where is it located? A water pressure regulator, if you have one, is usually located where the main water line comes into the house and after the main shut off valve. This way if you need to work on or change the water pressure regulator you can simply shut off the water main to do so.

Now, here are five symptoms that could indicate that your pressure reducing valve is going bad.

1. Low or Fluctuating Water Pressure.
2. No Water Pressure.
3. Hammering or Vibrating Noises.
4. A Leak in your Flower Bed.
5. High Water Pressure.

Replacing the Water Pressure Regulator Water pressure regulators are $250 to $350 to replace. The part averages $50, the rest is labor. It takes about three hours to install. The regulator reduces the pressure from the main line running into the home.

A malfunctioning water pressure regulator will cause a change in the pressure of water when you turn on the faucet. Fluctuations in water pressure usually means you have a bad regulator. When a regulator goes bad there may be so much pressure that damage occurs to the faucets and lines.

WaterOne is responsible for maintaining and replacing water mains throughout its service area, while property owners are responsible for their service line, ensuring access to water meters for reading and maintenance, and internal plumbing equipment such as pressure reducing valves (PRV).