J.W. Freeman has been your local Gainesville Plumber for over 10 years, and we know a thing or two about water pressure problems. We’ll discuss why you may experience a sudden change in water pressure and what you can do about it.
Why Does Water Pressure Vary?
Good water pressure is more than just a luxury—it’s a necessity for your plumbing system to function as it should. A healthy indoor plumbing system will maintain a consistent pressure that helps your fixtures, faucets, showers, and toilets flow and supply your home with clean and accessible water. However, when something goes wrong, the whole system goes awry.
Although your water pressure system could go wrong for many reasons, here are a few primary problems you may encounter in your home or business.
Low Water Pressure
A number of factors could cause low water pressure. While some are normal and easily preventable, others may be outside your control. For reference, anything under 40 PSI is considered weak flow from the shower or faucets. In many cases, low water pressure is caused by old pipes:
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The Problem: Old Pipes. Older pipes can cause several problems, including corrosion, leaks, clogs from built-up minerals, and restricted water flow. In older homes, galvanized steel or cast iron pipes were commonly used plumbing materials. These materials can deteriorate as they age, leading to significant issues.
The Solution: If you have older pipes, it’s important to continuously maintain and inspect them for signs of deterioration. If you start to notice discoloration, musty smells, leaks, losses of pressure, or other water issues, it may be time to have a professional plumber repair or replace your outdated pipes with more modern materials, like PVC or, PEX. If your fixtures are clogged, check aerators or try soaking them in a non-toxic solution overnight to clear off sediment.
Sudden Loss of Pressure
A sudden drop in pressure could be an indicator of some serious problems. In addition to spoiling a perfectly good shower or washing experience, it could often signal an urgent plumbing issue in your home, such as:
- Problem 1: Broken or burst pipe. If a pipe ruptures, it could drop your water pressure rapidly and cause significant damage to your home and plumbing system.
The Solution: Your first step is to shut off your water supply at the main line shut-off valve, typically located near the street. Second, call a plumber right away. The longer you wait, the more disastrous the consequences could be.
- Problem 2: A malfunctioning or failed pressure relief valve (PRV). A malfunctioning or broken PRV can often cause erratic pressure, leading to frustration and potential damage if left unchecked.
The Solution: Have a professional from J.W. Freeman Plumbers inspect your PRV and restore it to the correct levels.
Water Pressure Too High
Anything over 70 PSI from your shower or faucet is considered high water pressure. Although it may sound luxurious, high water pressure is no joke. It could lead to damaged appliances, leaks, cracks, and even burst pipes if left unchecked.
- The Problem: Damaged Appliances or Fixtures. When water pressure builds up over time, it can lead to serious consequences, including damaged washing machines, dishwashers, and other plumbing-based appliances.
The Solution: Before your pressure problem gets out of control, install a pressure relief valve (PRV) with the help of your local Gainesville plumber. A PRV can help maintain safe pressure levels, which are between 40 and 65 PSI.
Hammer Water & Noisy Pipes
When the plumbing system operates smoothly, you shouldn’t hear loud banging or groaning when you turn on your water faucet. Typically, these are signs of something malfunctioning, leading to a sudden rush of water against joints and pipes as it makes its way through your home.
- The Problem: High pressure or sudden valve closure. Water slamming against a closed valve thanks to high pressure causes the water hammer noise. This could be due to a sudden increase in water flow from a malfunctioning valve or pump.
The Solution: Install water hammer arresters or adjust your PRV to correct the issue.
Other Common Causes of Water Pressure Problems
- Mineral build-up: Cleaning your plumbing fixtures regularly with a deliming or descaling solution, like vinegar, can help reduce mineral buildup and regulate water pressure. Extreme cases may require further action, like installing a water softener system to help reduce the minerals in your residential water supply.
- Aging or faulty fixtures: As your plumbing system ages, things naturally deteriorate and need to be repaired or replaced. However, your plumbing system can thrive for decades with regular maintenance and updated faucets and fixtures.
- Municipal supply issues: Your local water supply system directly impacts your water pressure. If your city or county water system performs maintenance, repairs, or upgrades to the supply lines, it could temporarily affect your water pressure. Your municipality may also change the water distribution to accommodate high demand, drastically changing your typical water pressure expectations.
In many cases of municipal supply issues, your local utilities office will have the information you need on any changes to your water supply. - Home design: Not all plumbing systems are created equal, and when a design flaw is present, it sometimes takes years to locate and identify the issue. This is particularly true in older houses, where the plumbing may not have been up to today’s standards.
For homes that have unusual or unconventional plumbing systems, reworking the pipes can be a frustrating task on your own. It’s important to get professional help from your local plumber when repiping or updating your plumbing system.
Request Service From Your Local Gainesville Plumber Today!
While water pressure issues may be frustrating, you don’t have to live with them. Our team of experts can help identify and correct any water pressure issues you have. If you need any plumbing repairs or inspections, you can request plumbing service here from one of our local professionals.
