At Plumbing Avenue, low hot water pressure is one of the most common plumbing problems we come across in our day-to-day work. luckily, it’s often the easiest plumbing issue to fix as chances are there’s just something wrong with a control valve or your home’s pressure regulator. In today’s article, we highlight the top six reasons you may be experiencing low hot water pressure.
Common causes of low hot water pressure
Blocked pipes
Blocked pipes are one of the most common causes of low hot water pressure, as the water may be having trouble getting through sediment and debris. Luckily blocked pipes are one of the easiest plumbing issues to fix, as a plumber can easily find the source of the problem and clear it within the hour.
Pipes are corroded
If you have an older home, weak water pressure may be a sign the pipes are corroded. Generally, pipes last around 20 years before they need replacing, and water pressure getting increasingly low over the years likely points to corrosion as the culprit. An experienced plumber will be able to replace the corroded pipes with new ones, who can have your water pressure back to its strength in no time.
Leaking pipes
Weak water pressure can be a sign of leaking pipes, which may be overt (such as a dripping tap) or a concealed leak underground. A plumber will be able to quickly locate the source of the leak by conducting an inspection on your home or by doing a more thorough check of the underground plumbing system using a CCTV.
Water meter partially closed
Sometimes, the cause of weak water pressure can be as simple as a partially closed water meter. As the water meter is usually located on the outside of your home, it can be subject to accidentally tampering. If this is the case, you’ll find that water pressure is low throughout the entire house and not concentrated to one area. Be sure to check the water meter to see if it’s closed and notify a plumber if the meter isn’t the culprit.
Low Hot water pressure shower issues
Blocked shower head
If you’re finding low water pressure in the shower only, this might be a sign of a blocked shower head or a water saver. Blocked showerheads are a result of calcium build ups and can be fixed with an intense clean or by replacing the showerhead. If you’re in a rental property, there could be a water saver in the showerhead that’s restricting the flow.
If you’ve got low water pressure in the shower, be sure to contact Plumbing Avenue on 0429 642 293 to fix it ASAP.
Pressure regulator
Hot water pressure low but cold fine? The control valve might be the problem. This is because blocked pipes or corrosion would effort both hot and cold water, as it’s unable to single one out. A control valve may have been left off (if there was recent plumbing work) or there may be something wrong with the configuration of the pressure regulator. In any case, it’s worth calling up a plumber to take a look.
Need plumbing maintenance services?
If you’re experiencing weak water pressure or low pressure in the shower only and a flipped valve isn’t the culprit, it’s probably time to call a plumber. You can contact us on 0429 642 293, by filling out our online form or by emailing info@plumbingavenue.com and one of our Redcliffe and Brisbane plumbers will be in touch shortly.