If you notice a sudden change in the water pressure at home, it’s probably time to call your plumber. The following are four signs that you should be aware of, and if you notice more than one of them, you may need to have it checked out by a plumber. These symptoms can be caused by a number of factors, including leaks or clogged pipes. However, before you call a plumber, it’s best to check with your municipal water supply.
Low water pressure
If you have low water pressure in your home, you might be wondering what the cause is. It could be something as simple as a clogged pipe. Other causes may include a failing water heater, which can release small particles into your plumbing system and build up at choke points. Thankfully, there are some easy steps to take to restore water pressure in your home. Let’s look at some of the most common causes of low water pressure in homes.
Firstly, consider the size of your pipes. Some homes have old steel pipes that have corroded inside. These pipes can restrict the flow of water because of their size. Corrosion can take decades to affect water pressure. To solve this problem, you can either have a plumber install new pipes or install a water softener. Once the pipes have been replaced, you should see an increase in water pressure. If these solutions don’t work, you might consider hiring a plumber to do the work.
Leaks
High water pressure can lead to leaking pipes in your home. Even if the leaks are small, the water pressure can damage the pipes in your house, causing them to burst. This problem can also lead to expensive repairs or even replacement of fixtures. For these reasons, it’s imperative to find the source of the problem. If you suspect that your home has high water pressure, you should contact a plumber immediately.
You may notice a change in your water pressure if you have recently finished working on your home’s plumbing. A water company can open up a valve if you’ve recently had plumbing work done. Also, if you’re noticing a drop in water pressure, check for bubbles or hisses in the walls. Also, look for puddles or damp spots. If you find any of these signs, you’ve probably discovered a leak.
Clogged pipes
If you have low water pressure in your home, you can easily fix the problem by addressing the causes and tackling the clogs at their source. Some common causes of low water pressure include clogged pipes, faulty fixtures, rusting or corrosion, and a clogged pressure regulator. Identifying the root cause of low water pressure will help you get back on track and save money in the long run.
Low water pressure may also be caused by leaks in the pipes. Leaks in the pipes can cause water to escape before reaching the faucet. To check if a leak is causing the problem, shut off your water taps and record the meter reading. If your water usage increases while you are not using the water, you may have a leak. If the leak is in the main pipe, check for leaks.
Leaks in municipal water supply
If you notice a change in your homes water pressure, you should contact your plumber to find out what is causing the low pressure. There are two main causes of low water pressure: a leak or a buildup in your pipes. While plumbing problems can be repaired easily, a change in your homes water pressure could be caused by a leak or a damaged pipe. For both causes, you should contact a plumber.
The first thing to do is determine if the problem stems from the city’s water main or from your own plumbing. If the leak is on the city’s end, the city will excavate the affected section of pipe and repair the problem. If the problem is on your own water main, you’ll need to pay for the repairs. Some municipalities use sophisticated equipment to identify leaks. The Carson Dunlop Associates diagram below shows how important the components are at the municipal water supply entry and inside of your home’s interior water piping.
PRV valves
A change in your home’s water pressure can be a warning sign of a damaged or broken PRV. This device reduces water pressure in the home so that it is not overly harsh on your pipes or fixtures. It can be a simple adjustment or a plumbing repair that involves a replacement or installation of a new one. While the cost of the installation is typically $50, it can be much more costly if you want it installed by a plumber.
The early versions of these valves were installed on the main water line before it entered your home. They are often buried and obscured by landscaping. This makes it difficult to detect them in the early days, which is a shame as most homeowners never even know they have one. The good news is that most pressure reducing valves last for twelve to fifteen years. That is still long enough to save you a considerable amount of money each year.