There you are, with shampoo in your hair, trying to rinse off with a pathetic trickle of water. Trying to wash the dishes is no fun – and as for doing laundry, forget about it.
Solving low water pressure issues in high-rise buildings and residential towers is an ongoing plumbing problem. Before the problem can be fixed, the cause must be identified.
One common cause for low water pressure? Clogged pipes. This is especially true in older buildings, where rust and sediment have had the opportunity to accumulate for years and years. Your plumber will inspect the pipes. Depending on the size and nature of the clog, as well as any secondary damage the clog may have caused, it may be possible to have your water pipes cleaned and restored. In other instances, repiping the building may be the best route forward.
Another common reason for water pressure problems is insufficient pipe size. For one reason or another, at the time of installation, a pipe that was too narrow was installed. Undersized piping restricts the water flow and negatively impacts water pressure.
If your pipes and valves are fine, the next place to look for the cause of your low water pressure issues is the water supply and the pumps that transport the water from the supply to the point of use – i.e., your shower or faucet.
In some instances, the system might need a little help to deliver water at the desired pressure. Here in New York City, the municipal water system typically can serve up to a five-story building. After that, it’s time to have your plumber install a booster pump.
Step-by-Step Troubleshooting Guide
1. Initial Determination
First, determine if the water pressure problem is ongoing or recent.
2. Pressure Testing
- Professional Test: Conduct a water pressure test where the main water line enters your home using a pressure gauge. Your water pressure should be between 40-60 PSI, ideally at 50 PSI.
- DIY Multi-Flow Test: Run your washing machine along with two showers and two sinks. Flush one or two toilets. If the pressure drops significantly, you likely need to increase your water pressure.
3. Internal Plumbing Investigation
If external pressure is adequate, investigate internal plumbing:
- Corrosion and Build-Up: Older pipes may have corrosion that restricts water flow. Replace problematic sections or all internal piping if necessary.
- Undersized Piping: Ensure the piping is appropriately sized for your home’s plumbing fixtures.
4. Health Concerns
- Lead Pipes: Replace lead piping to avoid health issues.
5. External Water Main Issues
If the problem stems from the water main in the roadway:
- Contact Specialists: Reach out to subsurface water main and sewer specialists, as well as your local municipality.
- Municipal Records: Obtain city records to understand the pipe’s size and material.
6. Neighbor Consultation
Consult your neighbors to see if they experience similar issues. If most houses have good pressure, the issue is likely isolated to your home.
7. Permits and Replacement Process
If you need to replace the tap and water main:
- Permits: Secure necessary permits.
- Schedule Replacement: The plumber will handle most of the work, including digging and preparing the city main.
8. Leak Detection
Perform a noise test to detect leaks:
- Listening Device: A plumber can use a listening device to check for leaks inside your home.
- City Investigation: If unsure, have the city perform their own investigation.
9. Understand the System
Know that increasing the pipe size alone won’t necessarily improve pressure due to the tap connection’s role in controlling water flow.
Final Thoughts
Low water pressure can be frustrating, but with a thorough investigation and the right solutions, it can be resolved efficiently. Whether it’s cleaning out clogged pipes, replacing undersized or corroded piping, or installing a booster pump, taking the proper steps will help ensure you have strong, consistent water pressure throughout your home.
Steps to Address Ongoing Water Pressure Problems
If you’re experiencing persistent water pressure issues, follow these steps to diagnose and address the problem:
- Conduct a Water Pressure Test
- Begin by checking the water pressure at the point where the main water line enters your home. A pressure gauge can help you determine if the pressure is within the ideal range of 40-60 PSI (pounds per square inch).
- Typically, a plumber will disconnect the water line at the meter to use the pressure gauge effectively.
- Evaluate the Results
- Aim for a mid-range pressure of around 50 PSI, which is usually comfortable for most households.
- If the pressure from the street supply is adequate, the issue likely lies within your home’s internal plumbing system.
- Inspect Internal Plumbing
- Begin a process of elimination by checking various sections of your home’s plumbing to pinpoint specific problem areas or identify if the issue is pervasive throughout the house.
- Be aware that older homes may still have their original plumbing, which could be undersized for current water demands or have accumulated internal corrosion over time.
- Identify Corrosion or Build-Up
- Consider the age of your piping. For example, a 3/4 inch main pipe with decades of corrosion buildup could significantly reduce internal diameter, restricting water flow.
- Corrosion might reduce the effective diameter to as small as 1/2 inch or less, severely impacting water pressure.
- Replace Problematic Sections
- Once you identify problem areas, replace the corroded or undersized sections of pipe. In some cases, it may be prudent to replace all internal piping to prevent future issues.
- Always consider the health implications if your home has lead pipes. Replacing lead piping should be a priority to avoid any health risks.
- Contact Specialists for External Issues
- If your pressure test indicates a problem with the main water supply from the roadway, it’s essential to contact a subsurface water main and sewer specialist.
- Additionally, inform your local town or city authorities, as they regulate the municipal water supply and can facilitate further investigation and repairs.
By following these steps, you can systematically address water pressure issues, ensuring a more reliable and consistent water flow in your home.
