Tips for Fixing Water Pressure Loss in Your Shower

You turn on the water for an invigorating shower but instead of a strong, steady flow, you get a weak stream that resembles a drizzle. This is a frustrating scenario experienced by many homeowners. But, you don’t have to resign yourself to poor water pressure. There are a few things you can check to get your water pressure back in your shower.

1. Clogged Showerhead

The easiest way to fix water pressure loss in your shower is to clean out your showerhead. This is easy to check and fix. So, if this happens to be the problem, you can end your search for better water pressure right here.

To fix a clogged showerhead, all you have to do is remove your showerhead and soak it in a solution of one part vinegar, one part water. This usually removes any mineral deposits that may be clogging the showerhead and limiting water flow.

While you have the showerhead removed, turn on the water to see how the pressure seems. If the pressure is ok, the clogged showerhead is likely the culprit of the low pressure. However, if the pressure still seems on the low side, you’ll have to keep searching.

2. Pressure Balancing Valve

Showers that use a single knob to control both water temperature and pressure are susceptible to pressure issues. If you notice a loss of pressure when the toilet is flushed, this is likely the issue you’re facing. These valves mix hot and cold water together while maintaining a specific water pressure. So, when other fixtures nearby are used, it takes a bit for the valve to adjust. Unfortunately, the adjustment often means a pressure drop as the hot water is reduced to compensate for the loss of cold water being used nearby. Of course, this also occurs if hot water is being used elsewhere, it’s just that the cold water pressure is reduced to compensate.

How can you solve this problem? You’ll have to upgrade your pressure balancing valve with a thermostatic mixing valve. This upgrade can eliminate the loss of water pressure you’re experiencing in your shower.

3. Diverter Valve Troubles

If you have a bath and shower combination, there’s a knob that changes the flow of water from the tub to the shower. This diverter valve can break or become damaged after years of use. If this is the case, a replacement will probably be necessary. The key sign you’ll notice here is that the bath faucet gives you great pressure, but your shower doesn’t.

4. Broken or Clogged Pipe

One common sign of an undetected leak is a loss in water pressure. You may notice other signs of a leak such as moisture issues later, but these signs may take a while to appear. If you hear water running when you don’t have any taps on and also notice a sudden loss in pressure, it could be a leak. You’ll need a professional to diagnose this issue if there aren’t other signs.

Pipes can also become clogged due to mineral heavy water, resulting in poor water pressure. If this is the case, a professional plumber can help clear out your pipes and then install a water softener to avoid this problem in the future.

5. Water Pressure Reduction Valve Issues

For generalized water pressure issues in your home, you may be having trouble with the valve that controls the water pressure entering your home from the water main. These valves can require readjustment or suffer damage that results in poor water pressure in your home.

Call an Orange County Plumber

While you can check many of these issues on your own, some of them will require the help of a professional plumber. When you require help with any plumbing issue in your Orange County home, count on the experts at Biard & Crocket to help. We offer reliable, affordable, quality plumbing services to ensure you always have great water pressure. Call today to find out how we can help!

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