Low Water Pressures in Your Shower? Check These 4 Potential Causes
When you’re trying to get ready in the morning, is there anything more annoying than weak water pressure that makes your shower take forever? The good news is that you can often pinpoint the cause fairly quickly. And in many cases, you can fix it on your own. Here are four things to look for.
Reason #1: Blocked aerator screens.
Most of today’s shower heads have a part called an aerator that conserves water and filters debris. Over time, mineral deposits can build up and block the flow of water going through the screens. Thankfully, they are very easy to clean.
What you can do: Carefully unscrew the shower head and remove the aerator. Soak the screens in white vinegar for a few hours to break down the mineral deposits. Rinse off and reassemble the shower head, then check the water pressure.
Reason #2: Outdated shower head.
If cleaning the aerator doesn’t do the trick, it may be time to replace the entire shower head. Older shower heads can simply wear out or were designed to be low-flow in the first place. Newer models can still be efficient but give you better flow and a more satisfying shower.
What you can do: Replacing your shower head can be a DIY project. However, if it’s not installed correctly, it could lead to a big mess or damage to your home. If you’re unsure, let one of our professionals do the job for you.
Reason #3: Corroded pipes.
Remember the mineral deposits from reason #1? They can also build up inside your pipes (especially galvanized steel). Corrosion can limit the flow of water through your pipe, which affects the performance of your shower head and other faucets.
What you can do: Since you might not be able to see the corrosion from the outside of the pipe, it’s best to call in a licensed plumber for a professional inspection.
Reason #4: Hidden leak.
If your water bill has increased around the same time you started noticing low pressure (in your shower or any faucet in your home), those are signs you may have a leak somewhere in your home. Even if you don’t see water damage anywhere, the longer the leak goes unfixed, the worst it’s going to get.
What you can do: Give your home a thorough inspection wherever you can see or get near to plumbing. Also look for signs of water damage on ceilings, walls, and floors. If you see anything suspicious, call in an expert.
You shouldn’t put up with or ignore a trickling showerhead. Low water pressure isn’t just annoying—it can be a sign of a bigger issue with your plumbing. Follow these tips, and if you need more help, bring Reichelt Plumbing Inc. in to take care of the problem once and for all.
To learn more about our services or to schedule an appointment, call (219) 322-4906 today.