A nice hot shower can be the perfect way to start or end your day — but when you have low water pressure in your shower, the slow and weak trickles can be more frustrating than rejuvenating. So what causes low water pressure in the shower, and how can you increase the pressure? Read on for everything you need to know about low water pressure in your shower.
Why Is My Water Pressure Low?
Many factors have the potential to cause low water pressure in your shower. Here are some of the most common causes:
- Clogs: Clogs can form in your shower head, shower hose or pipes and obstruct water flow.
- Faulty pumps: If you have a well, a faulty or broken well pump will result in low water pressure.
- Partially closed valves: A partially closed water main or shower valves will restrict the flow of water to your shower.
- High demand: If a number of people are using the water supply at the same time, the high demand may cause low water pressure.
- Old pipes: Low water pressure may also be attributed to old pipes, which are especially common in cities.
How Can I Increase My Water Pressure?
If you’re dealing with low water pressure in your shower, you can take several steps to fix the problem. Some top methods to increase low water pressure include:
- Clean your showerhead: Materials like sediment, limescale buildup and mineral deposits can all form in your showerhead over time and cause your shower water to slow to a trickle. By cleaning your showerhead regularly, you can avoid these kinds of blockages. Simply unscrew the showerhead and clean the inside of it using a toothbrush or similar tool. You can also soak the showerhead in a bowl of vinegar overnight to remove mineral buildup.
- Check your valves: If your water main and shower valves are not open all the way, you’ll experience low water pressure. To open both valves fully, turn them counterclockwise.
- Look for leaks: Leaking pipes and water pumps will reduce the amount of water that gets to your shower. Leaking water can also cause damage to your home, so it’s important to address the issue as soon as possible. If you find leaks, call a professional plumber. You can also use epoxy putty as a temporary fix until the plumber arrives.
- Shower at an off time: If you shower at an off time and experience normal water pressure, the issue is probably caused by high demand and inadequate supply.
- Contact a professional: If none of these tricks work or you find a major leak or clog, contact a professional plumbing company.
Contact Dick Ray Master Plumber Today
The plumbing experts at Dick Ray Master Plumber will quickly and accurately discover the cause of the low water pressure in your shower and fix the problem. For more than 70 years, we have been providing exceptional plumbing service to Overland Park, Prairie Village, Leawood and the Kansas City, KS, areas. To book an appointment with us, submit our online appointment form or give us a call at (913) 214-8770.
