Why Does the Shower Have Poor Water Pressure?
As far as plumbing problems go, low shower water pressure may not be the most disastrous or unpleasant – but it can certainly be frustrating. A weak flow from the showerhead can make every shower take twice as long as it should and make it harder to rinse away soap and shampoo. If the pressure gets very weak, homeowners may be better off bathing in the tub the old-fashioned way!
But it’s not just the impact on the daily bathing routine that makes low water pressure such an annoying problem – it’s also that the cause is often a complete mystery. And since low water pressure can often result from a larger, more dire plumbing issue, it behooves every homeowner to understand the possible causes and act quickly to resolve them. So this article will cover three common causes of low water pressure in showers – and what to do about them!
A Problem With the Water Heater
The first step homeowners can take when experiencing low shower water pressure is to see if the hot and cold water are both affected. If only the hot water pressure is low - not just in the shower but at other fixtures - then there’s most likely an issue with the water heater.
Low hot water pressure can be caused by various water heater issues, including sediment buildup in the hot water tank, a faulty T&P (temperature and pressure) relief valve, a water tank leak, or even something as simple as a partially closed outlet valve. If homeowners trace their water pressure woes back to the water heater, a qualified professional should inspect their water heater to diagnose and resolve the problem.
Water Line Leaks
Another possible cause of low water pressure is a plumbing leak somewhere in the home. As water flows out of a leaky pipe, not only will there be less water running to the home’s fixtures, but some of the pressure within the lines will go along with it. Depending on the leak's location, it may affect a single showerhead or faucet more than others or multiple fixtures throughout the house.
A slow leak may cause a slight loss in water pressure, but if the water pressure drops dramatically, there may be a significant leak or even a burst pipe hidden under the floor, behind a wall, or even underground. Any size of leak can waste enormous amounts of water and do severe damage to the home, so it’s best to contact a plumber for leak detection if a leak is suspected.
The Showerhead Needs to Be Cleaned (Or Replaced)
In some cases, the culprit behind the low water pressure in the shower ends up being the showerhead itself. Over time, mineral scale deposits can build up and clog the nozzle holes or the showerhead’s internal components, limiting the water flow. If only a single shower in the home has water pressure issues, this is usually the reason – and there’s typically a visible chalky residue or crust on the showerhead.
Homeowners may find that cleaning the showerhead with a toothbrush and a paste of baking soda & water may help clear away the scale. Or they can try soaking it in a solution of equal parts water and white vinegar for about 30 minutes (or a combination of both). But if that doesn’t work, the best solution is to install a new showerhead. But suppose there’s also mineral scale collecting inside the home’s pipes (more common in older homes, particularly in regions with hard water). In that case, it’s a good idea to have a plumber determine the extent of the buildup.
About Hancock & Son Plumbing, Heating, and Air Conditioning
Hancock & Son Plumbing, Heating, and Air Conditioning is a local family-owned business serving Salisbury and the surrounding areas. They provide honest pricing, 24/7 emergency service, and personalized service options. Call them today for bathroom plumbing services in Salisbury, MD.
