Low water pressure can make even routine activities frustrating.

Showering feels like a trickle, filling the washing machine takes forever, and what seems to be a quick rinse leaves soap scum all over everything. So now you’re asking yourself “why is my water pressure so low?” It could be because of a clogged faucet aerator, a leaky pipe or a faulty water pressure regulator.

Knowing what caused this will allow you to know how to fix it or when you need to call a plumber.

Below are some common causes of low water pressure.

1. Mineral build-up inside faucet aerators

Over time, sediments and debris can collect inside faucet aerators which creates resistance in the flow of water causing lower pressure at the point of usage.

Fix: take apart the aerator and remove the debris. Use white vinegar to soak the parts if there is mineral residue. Reassemble and reinstall. If the debris is severe enough to require replacement, do so.

2. Build-up inside shower heads

Hard water can create lime and magnesium deposits inside the holes of a shower head which can limit free-flow of water creating weak showers.

Fix: follow the manufactures instructions for removal and cleaning of shower heads. Consider replacing severely clogged shower heads.

3. Shut-off valves partially closed

There are two primary types of shut-offs to consider: the main shut-off (located near where your water line enters your home) and the meter valve. Both of these are designed to cut off your water supply completely. If either of them are only partially open, they will restrict water going into your home.

This usually happens after plumbing work has been completed.

Fix: make sure both shut-off valves are wide open. Do not force or damage a stuck valve in an attempt to open it completely. Call a plumber if you cannot open the valve properly.

4. Bad/improperly set water pressure regulator

In many areas, municipalities provide pressurized water to individual Homes through a water distribution system. The regulator is a device that regulates the amount of water coming into your home based upon its internal setting. When it goes bad or gets adjusted improperly, your water pressure drops significantly or varies greatly.

Fix: a plumber can test the water pressure regulator, adjust it as necessary and/or replace it if it is broken.

5. Leaks in water pipes

Leaks in your water pipes can directly reduce the volume of available water and lead to moisture damage, mold growth, and increased water bills. Hidden leaks can be located behind walls, under flooring, etc.

Fix: find wet spots, unexpected puddles, new-looking stains on ceilings/walls/floors, excessive water bills. If you think you have a major leak, shut off the water when safe to do so and contact a licensed plumber immediately.

6. Corrosion/aging of galvanized steel pipes

Galvanized steel pipes deteriorate from corrosion on their interior surface as they age. Over time this deterioration limits the ability for water to pass through the pipes and subsequently reduces water flow in your home (often affecting multiple sinks/showers).

Fix: hire a plumber who will assess your piping system and advise on targeted repairs/replacement.

7. City/water utility maintenance/construction/low neighborhood demand

Your city/municipality’s water supply system may be providing less than adequate pressure due to work being done elsewhere in the community or simply too much demand on the system at that moment in time.

Fix: talk to your neighbors about possibly having the same issue. Contact your city/municipality’s public works department to find out if there are any scheduled maintenance projects underway.

8. Too much water being used at once inside your home

Too many things using water at the same time (i.e., three people taking separate hot showers while also doing laundry and washing dishes) decreases available flow to each fixture, especially those with already constricted plumbing or additional flow-restrictive devices installed previously.

Fix: don’t run as many devices using water at one time. If you’re still struggling with consistent poor pressure, have a plumber assess your overall plumbing system to see if there are other restrictions limiting flow.

9. Malfunctioned/blocked whole house filter or softener systems

If you have a whole house filter system (or softener), it is possible that there is something blocking the flow of water through the system. Even though you’ve been maintaining your equipment regularly, sometimes problems develop anyway. This can include mineral build-ups within filters/treatment components or malfunctioning equipment itself.

Fix: check your schedule for when you last replaced your filters (and follow manufacturers’ recommendations for maintenance). Ensure that any treatment components are functioning properly and as intended. If none of these steps resolve your issue, hire a professional to inspect your equipment to diagnose further.