Low water pressure appears to be a recurring issue in many homes — especially in areas like Mesa, where water hardness and aging plumbing exacerbate the problem. Whether it’s at the kitchen sink or throughout the house, low pressure can slow you down and make everyday tasks more frustrating than they need to be.
In this guide, we’ll cover the most common causes, provide troubleshooting steps, and outline solutions to resolve the issue.
Checking for Low Water Pressure
To check if you have low water pressure at home, start by turning on your main water shut-off valve and letting the water run at your faucet. Use a water pressure gauge — the reading should be between 40 and 60 psi. If it’s below 40, you’re dealing with a low-pressure problem. Hot water pressure issues can also be caused by your water heater, especially if sediment has accumulated inside.
Causes of Low Water Pressure
Low water pressure can stem from a variety of sources, ranging from minor clogs at individual fixtures to larger system-wide issues in your plumbing or even the municipal supply — here are some of the most common causes to look out for:
Clogged Aerators or Cartridges
A clogged faucet aerator or faucet cartridge is often the most common issue at the kitchen sink. These small parts can become blocked with sediment or mineral buildup. You can remove and soak them overnight in distilled white vinegar or replace them entirely.
Pipes Blocked by Mineral Deposits
Hard water can leave mineral deposits that narrow the inside of your pipes, restricting water flow. The only fix is to have the pipes professionally cleaned or replaced. This is not a DIY job — you’ll need a reputable plumber to handle it.
Leaking Pipes
If your water meter continues to move even with all water fixtures turned off, there may be a hidden leak in your home. Corroded pipes, caused by wear and tear over time, can lead to leaks and significant drops in pressure. You might need extensive repairs or complete pipe replacement.
Faulty Water Pressure Regulator
You may have a faulty pressure regulator or a broken water pressure gauge. If pressure seems low throughout your home, the regulator is a good place to start. Inconsistent readings or drops in flow despite good gauge numbers may also indicate a malfunction.
Low City Supply or Water Main Issues
Sometimes, poor water pressure stems from the city’s supply itself — especially during peak usage hours when many homes demand water simultaneously. In some cases, installing a water pressure booster can help stabilize the flow.
Peak Usage Problems
If your low water pressure occurs during specific times of day (such as morning or evening), it may be due to everyone in your neighborhood using water simultaneously. Try shifting your primary water usage to off-peak hours to see if that helps.
Dirty Water Filter
If your home has a water filtration system, remember to change the filter regularly. Dirty filters can significantly slow down your water flow, especially in areas with hard water.
Old or Corroded Pipes
Galvanized steel or old copper pipes often corrode from the inside over time. As corrosion builds up, it reduces pressure and can even lead to leaks or pipe bursts. In this case, repiping may be necessary.
Burst Pipes or Water Main Breaks
Cold weather or ground shifts can cause pipes to burst or underground mains to break. These issues often cause sudden pressure drops and require immediate attention. If you suspect this, shut off your main valve and call a plumber.
Water Source Elevation
Water pressure may be affected by the elevation of your home compared to the water source. If your water tank is lower than your home, pressure can drop. Raising the tank or installing a booster pump can help alleviate the issue.
How to Fix Low Water Pressure
- Clean your aerator regularly by soaking it in vinegar.
- Replace filters on your water purification or filtration system often.
- Install a water softener to help reduce mineral buildup.
- Check your water heater for sediment buildup if the hot water pressure is low.
- Consider installing a pressure-reducing or pressure-boosting valve, depending on your situation.
- Replace old or corroded pipes to restore normal pressure in the long run.
Still, Dealing with Low Pressure? Call a Professional
The trick to solving low water pressure is finding the root cause — whether that’s a blocked fixture, a corroded pipe, a faulty regulator, or a city-side issue. Some fixes are easy. Others, such as hidden leaks or full pipe replacement, require a licensed plumber to handle correctly.
If you’re experiencing ongoing water pressure issues in your home, please call us at (480) 649-4400. The team at P&L Plumbing is here to help you get things flowing again.