Most take comfort in a nice warm shower as soon as they get home after a long day’s work. And it’s not surprising as warm showers are known to be therapeutic, relaxing tired muscles, loosening chest congestion, increasing blood flow, and relieving aches and pains.
Yes, taking a warm shower is the most comforting thing you can do, especially when temperatures begin to cool down. But if you knew your shower lost pressure due to some problem you’re not sure of, you’re probably not going to be as excited about this relaxing activity as you should be.
Water pressure should be at the ideal level to make showering genuinely relaxing and rejuvenating. The temperature should also be in the correct range. Unfortunately, when both water pressure and temperature are not in sync, the experience will be a whole lot different.
What Causes Low Water Pressure in the Shower?
Pressure and volume are two different things. The latter describes the flow of water to your home, while the former is about its intensity. Thus, you may have perfect water volume, but the pressure could be too low per your needs.
Below are some of the reasons you’re having low water pressure in the shower.
1. Clogged Shower Head
If you’re using hard water, mineral deposits can eventually accumulate in the tiny holes of your shower head. This will affect the flow and volume of your water. To remove the deposits, unscrew the shower head and and soak this in vinegar for about eight hours. Afterward, scrub any remaining mineral deposits by using a toothbrush and a toothpick.
2. Faulty Pressure Regulator
The function of this plumbing component is to ensure that the water pressure in your home is at a safe level, which is normally 46 to 60 psi. Like all things, the pressure regulator can sometimes fail, and the result is a lower water pressure in the shower. When this is the case, you’ll need to replace the regulator.
3. Low-Flow Shower Head
These are popular shower heads because they can help conserve water. However, they are old versions that produce shower low water pressure and dissatisfying shower experiences. Upgrading to the latest model should result in stronger pressure and a refreshing and satisfying shower.
4. Corroded Pipes
A sudden loss of water pressure in the shower could be caused by a problem in your plumbing system. Old pipes, particularly those made of metal, can corrode and rust over time. This will eventually restrict the flow of water and, consequently, the water pressure, including all the showers in your house. Water loss can ultimately occur when the pipes start to leak.
5. Water Heater Issue
The water heater in your home is an essential component of your plumbing system. It heats all the water in your home, including the one in the shower room. Unfortunately, water heaters are neglected appliances even as manufacturers recommend that a water heater flush be performed at least once every year.
The age of the unit will also have a significant impact on its performance. Most models generally last from 10 to 15 years. Older water heaters are likely damaged in some ways and should be replaced immediately.
6. Closed Valves
The typical home plumbing system has many valves. Low water pressure can occur if any of the valves are not completely open, which is often the case in many households.
7. Damaged Mixing Valve
A single-handle shower faucet usually has an internal component called a mixing valve. This controls the flow of hot and cold water to your shower head. If the valve breaks, it can cause a drop in water temperature and shower low water pressure. Fixing a mixing valve is difficult, and an expert plumber has to be called in so that a replacement can be installed.
8. Main Valve Issue
Sometimes, you might experience temporary low to no water pressure in the shower due to repairs being done on the main water meter valve. This is usually under the control of the city government and on a periodic basis, the valve gets upgraded so it can function better.
It can also happen that the valve has not been fully opened, especially if there has been recent plumbing work done. A plumber properly trained in water pressure can be asked to inspect the main supply line to determine its status.
9. Faulty Volume Control
A single-control shower has a volume valve that controls water pressure. This is a rather complicated shower component, and if it gets damaged, you will need to have it replaced. Ideally, this should be done by a professional plumber.
10. Shower Time
Experiencing low water pressure when taking a shower can sometimes be due to an external cause. There could be high water usage in the place where you live. This is especially true during peak times, such as early in the morning before people leave for work and at night after they come home. To confirm this, you can test your water pressure during low-use times like in the afternoon or during weekends.
What to Do with Shower Low Water Pressure
Low water pressure in your shower can sometimes be fixed with simple DIY efforts. However, if the problem lies in your supply valve or with your home pipes, then a quick fix will not work. Getting the services of an experienced plumber should be considered.
Key Takeaway
Low water pressure is a common experience shared by numerous homeowners. However, if the problem is restricted to the shower area, there’s a good chance that one of the shower parts is damaged. The usual suspect is the shower head since this is where your water flows through as it travels from your supply line.
On the other hand, if low water pressure is being experienced all across the house, you may have a more serious problem in your hands. There could be a leak somewhere in your plumbing or the water valves could be damaged. Either way, it’s best to have a trusted plumbing company perform an inspection so they can find a way to improve the shower water pressure for you.
When there’s a problem with your shower, contact A Better Plumber.
It can be disappointing taking a shower when you have low water pressure. If you need help finding out what’s causing this, A Better Plumber is just a call away.
We can have one of our experts in plumbing in Denver, CO drop by your place at your most convenient time to see how we can improve the shower water pressure in your home. We guarantee top-notch plumbing services. Call us now.
