About Me

Planning and Executing Construction and Contracting Projects: Tips for Consumers

Welcome to my blog. My name is Deborah. About 15 years ago, I bought an old home. We worked with several contractors to rehabilitate it, but ultimately, the foundation simply wasn't stable enough, and we had to tear it down. After that, we worked with a construction crew to build a home from the ground up. The experience was exciting and challenging, and I learned a lot through that process. I want to share construction and contracting facts and information with others so I decided to start this blog. I hope that you like the results, and I thank you for reading. Enjoy!

Planning and Executing Construction and Contracting Projects: Tips for Consumers

Under Pressure: Troubleshooting Low Water Pressure

by Samantha Russell

Experiencing problems with your water pressure can be a real pain. No one wants to shower in a drip of water or to wait forever for a sink to fill. If you need to troubleshoot low water pressure, below are some common causes.

Blocked Aerators

If low water pressure only affects a particular tap, it may be that the aerator on that particular tap is blocked or clogged with debris. To clear it, unscrew the end on the tap and remove the aerator. Remove any debris which has built up before replacing the aerator. 

Pressure Reducing Valve

If you are experiencing low pressure throughout the entire system, you should check the pressure reducing valve (PRV). The PRV can normally be found where the main's water pipe enters your property. If the PRV has failed or is not set up correctly, it can cause a loss of water pressure.

Low Pressure in the Hot Water System

If the low pressure problem is only affecting the hot water system, this suggests that there is a problem with your water heater. You should first check the hot water shut-off valve and ensure that it is open. If the valve is open, you will need to call a plumber to service your hot water system.

Demand

If your water pressure falls and rises throughout the day, this could suggest that it is demand being placed on the water supply by your community which is causing the fall in pressure.

Master Shut-Off

The majority of homes have a master shut-off valve, which is normally located near the water meter. This valve controls the water supply to the entire home. If the valve is not fully open, it can restrict the supply of water to your home and cause a drop in pressure. 

Water Leakage

A leak will cause your water pressure to drop. To determine if you have a leak you should take a reading from your water meter before turning the water off at the master shut-off valve. Wait a few hours before taking a second meter reading. If water has been used while the valve was shut, this indicates a leak.

Mineral Deposits

If you live in an older property, there is a good chance it has galvanised pipes. These pipes can cause minerals from the water to deposit on them, decreasing the diameter of the pipe. Although this causes no risk to health, it can restrict the flow of water in the pipe and lower the water pressure.

If you experience problems with your water pressure, you should call a professional plumbing service. 

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