Do you have to wait forever for the tub to fill or for your washing machine to complete its cycles? Low water pressure can slow life down to a crawl. Before you schedule plumbing services for your Birmingham AL home, let’s look at the most common reasons for low water pressure:

Problems With the Main Water Valve

The main water shut-off valve may be situated in your garage or basement. It could be near the water heater or outside where water enters your home. Check this valve to ensure that it’s completely open. The handle should be turned counterclockwise as far as possible. Work the handle back and forth gently a few times so that any buildup can break free and full water pressure can be restored.

Obstructions in the Pipes

Clogged pipes can cause low pressure. Clogs are generally situated only in isolated areas of the plumbing system and should be cleared by a professional plumber. The process can be complicated, and you could easily contaminate your drinking water. An experienced plumber can quickly find the clog and remove any obstructions.

Issues With Fixtures

Pressure problems can be caused by faulty plumbing fixtures. Older fixtures get clogged with dirt, sediment, and rust that hampers water flow. You can turn on each fixture to determine if one of them is at fault. Be sure to check the aerator screens for clogs as well. If cleaning the fixture and the screen doesn’t help, you might need a fixture replacement.

Pressure Regulator Problems

Plumbing pressure regulator can fail in homes that have them. Besides reducing water pressure, the regulator can also increase pressure. Replacing a faulty pressure regulator is also best left to an expert plumber.

At Benjamin Franklin Plumbing, we can fix water pressure problems from simple fixture screen cleaning to corroded pipe replacement. Call us at (205) 351-0706 for 24/7 emergency plumbing services throughout the Birmingham, AL area.