What's Causing Low Water Pressure in the Shower?

Press Services
Thursday, November 30, 2023 at 8:05pm UTC

Plumbers in Green Bay, WI, help homeowners understand possible causes of low water pressure in the shower.

Green Bay, United States - November 30, 2023 / Vern Kummers Plumbing, Inc. /

Possible Causes of Low Shower Water Pressure

Showers are supposed to be relaxing, with good water pressure. After a long, cold day in winter, the best way to warm up is by hopping in a long, hot shower. Unfortunately, there will come a day when a homeowner needs a shower only to find that their water pressure has become so low that showering becomes tedious. 

Knowing the underlying causes of low water pressure in the shower can empower homeowners to make smart decisions regarding professional repairs. Here are three possible reasons for low water pressure in the shower and some advice about dealing with them.  

Water Heater 

water heater The first thing to determine when experiencing low water pressure is where the problem is coming from. Is the low water pressure coming from just one fixture or many? Is it limited to hot water only, or does it affect both hot and cold water? If only the hot water is experiencing low water pressure, the problem may be located at the water heater or hot water lines from the water heater. 

Low hot water pressure that originates at the water heater will typically be evident at more fixtures than just one showerhead. The problem likely arises from a water heater that hasn’t been properly maintained. During water heater maintenance, the tank is drained and flushed to remove sediments that can settle and build up the tank. This sediment can also cause corrosion that interferes with water pressure. A plumber should be called to deal with water heater issues since they can pinpoint and fix the problem. 

Leaks or Clogs 

The next likely source of low water pressure is a leak or clog in the piping that conveys water around the home. This is more likely to be the cause if the water pressure occurs with multiple fixtures around the home. Leaks occur when there are cracks, holes, or loose connections in the pipes, causing water to escape before it reaches its destination. 

On the other hand, clogs happen when there is a buildup of debris, such as mineral deposits, inside the pipes that restrict water flow. Both leaks and clogs can significantly reduce water pressure in the plumbing system, making it difficult to use faucets and fixtures properly, and a plumber should be called to solve both these issues. 

Showerhead 

showerhead service The final possible culprit when it comes to low water pressure in the shower is the shower head. This is likely the case if the low water pressure only occurs from that one fixture and with hot and cold water from it.  Shower heads can become crusted and clogged with a mineral scale caused by hard water. 

This scale can build up inside the holes of the shower head so that the total amount of water it is designed to deliver cannot pass through, causing low water pressure. Homeowners can descale the shower head by cleaning and soaking it, but it may also be time to replace it. 

About Vern Kummers Plumbing, Inc.

Vern Kummers Plumbing, Inc. has been serving Green Bay and the surrounding areas since 1976. They offer honest, competitive pricing, personalized service, and on-time arrivals. Call them today for plumbing services in Green Bay, WI

Contact Information:

Vern Kummers Plumbing, Inc.

1808 Allouez Ave
Green Bay, WI 54311
United States

Rick Kummers
(920) 468-8756
https://www.vernkummersplumbing.com/

Original Source: https://www.vernkummersplumbing.com/press-releases