Once in a while, you will experience water challenges at home. At some point, you might find it hard to wash off the shampoo on your head, or your bathtub might suddenly take too much time to fill.
Water pressure determines the flow of water in your home. The amount of water that flows out your tap depends on how high the service reservoir or water tower is above your home or how much water other people are using. If you experience low water pressure in your home for some reason, any of the following could be the main cause.
Your shutoff valve is not fully open
The shutoff valve is the main passageway water uses to enter your home. When it is not fully open, it limits the amount of water that passes through. Similarly, when you shut this off, your water supply will also be cut off completely.
Your household is in full control of your main shutoff valve. If you recently had plumbing work done at home, the plumbers most likely adjusted the valve and have not returned it to its correct position.
What you need to do: Ensure that the main shutoff valve is in its correct position. Start by checking the main shutoff valve in your house. It can either be in your basement or the utility area outside your home. There are two common types of shutoff valve control: a wheel-like handle or a lever. If yours uses a wheel-like handle, you need to turn it counterclockwise fully. If it is a lever-type, the pipe direction and the handle should be parallel.
Your water meter valve is not fully opened
Your household has control over the shutoff valve, but the city owns your water meter. The water meter valve is your primary water source. Since it belongs to the city, do not consider tampering with it unless there is an emergency plumbing problem and altering it is your only solution. However, you can always check its condition to affirm your assumption.
What you need to do: If you see that the water meter handle is parallel with the water pipe or supply line, that means your valve is open. If the handle is at an angle, then someone must have altered your water flow. For any water valve adjustment, contact your local water department. They will give you advice on what steps to take.
Something is wrong with your water heater
Your water heater can also affect the pressure for both hot and cold water in your house. Here are two possible scenarios:
Sediment buildup – Minerals, residues, and even rust will eventually accumulate within the water heater tank and connecting pipes. The more they gather, the less the space for water flow.
Shut water valve – Check your water heater valve as well. If the shutoff water valve is closed or not fully open, your home will experience a decrease in water pressure. Changing it back to the “open” status will return your water pressure to normal.
What you need to do: Call a plumbing professional to deal with your water heater issues. The water heater can be dangerous due to the pressure it generates. It is best to leave this concern to the professionals to avoid any accidents.
You have a clogged aerator screen
Every tap has an aerator screen to manage and conserve water flow. The moment it gets clogged, you will experience a sudden decrease in water flow. If you notice that only one tap in your home is affected, you probably have a clogged aerator screen you need to fix.
What you should do: Try to remove the screen and then soak it in a solution of hot water and vinegar. You can also replace it with a new one if needed.
Conclusion
There are many possible reasons behind the change in the water pressure level in your home. If you need assistance in determining its real cause or you need help in increasing your home’s water pressure, working with a professional plumber is your best option.
If you need plumbing services in North Atlanta, our local plumbers are here to help. Plumb Medic ensures you get quality plumbing services at affordable rates. We can clean, repair, restore, and fix any of your plumbing concerns. Contact us today to learn more.
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