Maybe you were taking a shower, washing dishes, or watering your garden. Suddenly, the water pressure dropped to almost nothing. Or it unexpectedly gushed with power. Perhaps you have varying water pressure in different parts of your home. While fluctuating and uneven water pressure can be annoying, it can also be a sign of something going awry in your plumbing system.

Here are seven possible causes of water pressure changes in your home’s plumbing.

• Air in the water lines
  When air gets into your water pipes, it can cause sudden sputtering changes in water delivery as the air escapes the faucet. Air can enter the system through leaks in the suction line, tank bladder, or water pump, or from gas buildup in the well.
• Clogged pipes and fixtures
  Over time, the aerator screen in your faucets can get clogged with calcium deposits, sand, and dirt, blocking the flow. Check this first before calling your plumber. However, a clogged pipe may need a professional.
• Faulty pressure regulator
  The flow of water into your home is controlled by a pressure regulator. If it fails, due to age or damage, water flows unimpeded into the lines, leading to lower pressure throughout the home.
• Insufficient water supply
  Low water pressure can be caused simply because too many people are trying to use it at the same time. This can be family members using multiple water sources at once in the home, or neighbors overloading the main line.
• Cracked water pipes
  If you have a large leak in your system, due to frozen pipes bursting or cracked lines due to age, you’ll notice a big sudden drop in water pressure. If you suspect a leak, you should call a plumber immediately to prevent damage.
• Water heater failure
  If you notice a lack of pressure when you turn on the hot water but the cold water pressure is normal, it’s a good indication that something is wrong with your water heater. You’ll need your plumber to diagnose exactly what it is.
• Water shutoff valve closed
  One of the first things you should check when you notice low pressure is the shutoff valve under the sink. Sometimes they can be inadvertently turned halfway off by someone reaching for something or by a child.

If you’re experiencing water pressure problems in your home, Knight’s Mechanical can diagnose and solve the problem. Contact us by phone or online to schedule an appointment.