Low water pressure in the home can be quite an annoyance. The shower doesn't feel as refreshing, it takes longer to wash the dishes, and the water doesn't seem to get as hot as it used to. To fix the problem, your plumber will need to get to the root of it. Here are four possible reasons why your water pressure is so low.

1. There's a blockage in the pipes

There may be something lodged in your pipes that is inhibiting the flow of water, such as a small pebble or a piece of paper. If you have to unclog the washing machine drain frequently, it could be because there are clothes stuck in the pipes. Running hot water through your pipes may help dislodge certain types of debris, but others will need a professional plumber's assistance.

2. The pressure regulator might be faulty

Another possible cause of low water pressure is a faulty pressure regulator. The regulator is a valve that controls water pressure by regulating the water flow in your home. This is a relatively simple problem to fix with a wrench and a screwdriver, but it may take some time to track down where your regulator is. Some homes may also have multiple regulators on the water line. As such, you may find that calling a plumber is a better solution than trying to fix it yourself. 

3. The water meter could be faulty

When your water meter measures how much water you use, it may also be set to alter your water pressure level. Removing the plate covering your water meter may show if there are any problems, but you need to know what to look for. Dirty and clogged meter filters are a common cause of problems, but thankfully, they're relatively cheap and quick to replace. 

4. There's a pinhole leak

Alternatively, your pipes might have a small pinhole leak affecting the water pressure in your home. Pinhole leaks can be difficult to spot, and you may not even notice one for quite some time. You can sometimes try isolating the source of the leak yourself by running your water line and checking the pipes thoroughly.

Ultimately, if you've noticed a change in the amount of water pressure your home is receiving, it's always a good idea to get in contact with a professional plumbing company. While some problems can be diagnosed and fixed without professional help, you risk causing further damage if you're not familiar with your plumbing system. A trained plumber should be able to rectify most plumbing problems quickly and get your faucets back to full pressure. 

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