Dump Low Water Pressure this Valentine's Day

Stop Letting Low Water Pressure Get You Down!

Plumbing in a home is generally surprisingly reliable considering the amount of work it does. However, the slow march of time can take its toll on the plumbing inside a home and lead to plumbing problems. This time of year, the late winter, has a tendency to show plumbing problems more often because winter’s harsh conditions can take a toll on plumbing. 

One of the main problems common in plumbing is low water pressure. Low water pressure can happen to anyone for a variety of reasons. Here is a guide to help homeowners understand the causes and remedies for low water pressure in a home. 

Common Causes of Low Water Pressure

Low water pressure can occur in supply lines and drain lines. Water in supply lines should stay at a constant pressure year-round to provide water to the home. In drain lines, gravity provides the pressure to whisk waste away. When either of these two is impeded, low water pressure occurs. Causes of low water pressure are:

• Internal corrosion on supply or drain pipes
• Clogs formed in drains
• Supply valves partially closed
• Failing pressure regulator
• Leaks or high demand

Fixing Low Water Pressure

Fixing low water pressure will require the help of a plumber to determine the cause. In the case of the above examples, different solutions will be offered. If the inside of the pipes is corroded, the pipes will need to be replaced or internally resurfaced. 

For clogs that have formed in drains, drain cleaning companies can quickly resolve this problem. They have special tools designed to snake the pipes and remove debris. They may also choose to wash the inside of the pipes to get rid of grime. 

Before trying anything, make sure supply valves are open. Sometimes supply valves can stick closed, in which case they will need to be replaced. The same goes for pressure regulators. Once they fail, replacement by a professional is the only option. 

Major leaks or demand elsewhere in the home can cause low water pressure. To be diagnosable as a problem, the low water pressure should be chronic. Checking for leaks should be one of the first steps since leaks can cause major damage within the home. 

Preventing the Causes of Low Water Pressure

There are several things that homeowners can do on their own and with the help of a plumbing company. Here are a few ideas to prevent low water pressure:

• Install Water Softeners: A common cause of low water pressure is mineral scale. Water softeners are designed to remove excess minerals to prevent mineral buildup in piping and appliances. 

• Replace Metal Piping: Metal piping is subject to corrosion. Modern plastic alternatives do not corrode internally and supply pressure more reliably. 

• Test Water Pressure Annually: Annual pipe inspection is a good idea. Pressure testing devices can be found at hardware stores so homeowners can keep track of this themselves. 

• Routine Drain Cleaning: Many plumbing companies offer periodic routine drain cleaning. This keeps the inside of pipes clean and ensures that emergency backups don’t happen in the future. 

About Gillece Services 

Gillece Services offers customized plumbing services to fit every solution and budget. Emergency services are available for after-hours problems any day of the year. They even offer financing to take the stress out of surprise repairs. Contact them to schedule drain cleaning in Pittsburgh, PA today! 

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