(614) 987-8100
Water pressure is controlled by two places: external to the home from the city water line and internally at the water meter valve, the main valve, or the water heater. There isn't much you can do about the flow from the city water line, though in Columbus, OH, issues with the city line are rarely the cause of low water pressure. You can, however, influence the water pressure controlled in the home. Before we discuss solutions, let's look at low pressure signs, common culprits, and troubleshooting tips.
Low Water Pressure Signs and Symptoms
Low water pressure in your home can negatively affect your everyday tasks, plumbing system, and the longevity of your water-dependant appliances. These are some common signs you have low water pressure.
- Low water pressure at each faucet: If the pressure is low at just one or two connected faucets, the issue could be a localized build-up.
- Water pressure decreases when more than one source is in use: Multiple faucets running at once shouldn't affect your water pressure if you have the right amount of pressure.
- Water-dependent appliances don't work efficiently: A wash cycle may take longer or items come out still dirty.
If you have a water pressure gauge, low water pressure will read below 40 PSI. The standard water pressure is 40 to 85 PSI.
Causes of Low Water Pressure from Water Heaters
If the only time you have low water pressure is when you use hot water, you have water heater pressure issues. Don't panic yet. Fixing low water pressure in a water heater isn't impossible. Let's look at some of the common causes.
Shut-off valve
It's not impossible to mistakenly bump a shut-off valve. The water pressure will seem low if the valve isn't fully open.
Sediment build-up
Columbus is known for its moderately high water hardness at 120 ppm. All those undissolved particles can build up around the valves and pipes, decreasing the water pressure.
Distance
Proximity plays a role in water pressure. Water pressure decreases the farther it has to travel. Faucets and appliances that are farther away from the hot water tank will have lower pressure.
Faulty pressure relief valve
A faulty pressure relief valve will fail to regulate the pressure coming from the water tank.
DIY Troubleshooting
When troubleshooting for low pressure, there can be more than one cause. Let's start by ruling out what isn’t giving you problems.
First, you can rule out the city line as the cause by asking your neighbors about their water pressure. If you are the only person in the neighborhood with low water pressure, we can move on to internal issues.
Next, confirm that your water meter valve and main valve are fully open. It could be they were mistakenly adjusted or never set properly. All you are left with is a problem with your water heater or plumbing system.
If the low pressure is only with the hot water, you've got water heater flow problems.
If the answer is none of the above, you have a problem with your plumbing system. It could be excessive build-up at the main line or a damaged pipe causing a leak.
Professional Inspection and Diagnosis
There are times when DIY troubleshooting water heater pressure doesn’t get to the root cause. When you need professional diagnosis and inspection in Columbus or the outlying areas, call Apex Plumbing, Heating, and Air Pros. We have expert plumbers and advanced tools to inspect and diagnose your system. We perform water leak detection, backflow testing, and camera scope for tree root invasion and other blockages.
Common Repairs for Low Water Pressure
Now that we’ve discussed why you might have low water pressure, let’s go over some options for fixing the problem. Water heater repair for low pressure often involves cleaning and parts replacement.
You’ll need to flush your plumbing system to remove any build-up that’s causing low water pressure. If leaks are present, pipe replacement should also be part of the repair.
When the culprit is the water tank, you'll need a full servicing. The tank should be drained and all the build-up removed. Commonly, the anode rod needs replacing in cities with hard water, like Columbus. The anode rod attracts corrosive particulates in hard water to prevent it from degrading other important parts of the water heater system.
Preventive Maintenance Tips
You can keep your water pressure regulated by following these preventative maintenance tips:
- Clean build-up and residue from your faucets and shower heads
- Flush your water heater
- Monitor your system for leaks and damaged pipes
The best way to prevent water pressure disruption is to schedule regular maintenance with your local plumbing professional.
When To Call a Professional
Diagnosing and repairing water problems can involve costly tools. In some cases, DIY attempts can cause more damage to your plumbing system. A professional plumber has advanced tools and the expertise to troubleshoot, clean, and repair your plumbing system.
At Apex Plumbing, Heating, and Air Pros, we offer a Care Bear Preventative Maintenance Plan. We protect your home’s systems to help prolong the service life and give you back peace of mind. Our Care Bear Club includes these perks:
- Dedicated customer care phone line
- Front-of-the-line scheduling
- No dispatch fees
- 10% off on all repairs
- 10% off IAQ (Indoor Air Quality) systems
- Labor warranty extended to 2 years*
- Annual heating system tune-up (scheduled in the fall)
- Annual cooling system tune-up (scheduled in the spring)
- Annual plumbing system inspection (scheduled at your convenience)
- Water quality test
Our precision plumbing maintenance includes:
- Check hot and cold water mains
- Check all faucets, showers, and toilets for proper operation
- Check washing machine hose, valve, and drain
- Check garbage disposal connections and operation
- Check dishwasher connections
- Drain and flush conventional tank water heater (if applicable and necessary)
Call the Pros at Apex!
Apex Plumbing, Heating, and Air Pros offer whole-home solutions from our highly experienced team. Our plumbing professionals provide exceptional service and a 5-star satisfaction guarantee. For quality plumbing services in Columbus and the surrounding cities, contact us today.
