As New York City plumbers, we get a lot of questions about water pressure. The most common question is why there is no water pressure. People also often want to know what causes a sudden loss of water pressure. Third on the list is the question we are considering today: why does water pressure fluctuate?
Understanding Water Pressure Fluctuations
When we say water pressure fluctuates, we mean that the water does not come out of the fixture at a steady pressure. There will be times of low pressure alternating with high pressure, or, low pressure alternating with slightly higher pressure.
Why does this happen? Fluctuating water pressure is generally a sign that you are on the path to having no water pressure at all. The issue may be developing clogs within your pipes, a problem with your water heater, or an issue with the valves. Sometimes the issue with water pressure fluctuation occurs at the fixture, such as a clogged showerhead or faucet.
The best way to determining the root cause of the water pressure issues in your home is to have a NYC plumber check things out. By accurately identifying the reason your water pressure is fluctuating, they can then fix the issue. Then you can enjoy having steady water pressure for the entirety of your shower.
Why Do Water Supply Lines Clog?
While it’s easy for most people to understand how drain pipes clog, the mechanics of water supply line clogs are different. After all, there should be nothing but water in these pipes, right? How can they clog?
The culprit is minerals and other trace elements that exist in the water. As the water travels, these materials settle out of the water and line your pipes. Once the lining builds up to such a point that it obstructs or prevents water flow, you encounter the water pressure issues we discussed.
When experiencing fluctuating water pressure, it’s essential to pinpoint whether the issue affects only hot water or both hot and cold water.
- Hot Water Only: If you notice that just your hot water pressure is inconsistent, the likely culprit is the mixing valve. This component regulates water temperature and flow, and when it malfunctions, it often disrupts hot water pressure.
- Both Hot and Cold Water: If you observe pressure fluctuations in both hot and cold water, the issue likely stems from the water pressure regulator. This device, often located on the city water feed line inside your home, is responsible for maintaining consistent water pressure. When this regulator fails, it can lead to erratic pressure levels throughout your entire water system.
By determining whether the problem is isolated to hot water or affects both, you can more accurately diagnose and address the root cause.
Understanding Water Pressure Fluctuations in Cold Weather
When cold weather hits, many homeowners notice changes in water pressure. These fluctuations, especially if they occur solely during the colder months, can be linked to a few key factors:
1. Frozen Pipes
- Temperature Drop: As temperatures plummet, water in poorly insulated pipes can freeze. This not only blocks water flow but can also lead to pipe bursts, drastically affecting pressure.
- Prevention Tip: Insulate exposed pipes and consider heat tapes to keep them above freezing temperatures.
2. Increased Demand
- Behavioral Changes: Cold weather often results in higher demand for hot water—taking longer showers or running more laundry loads. This increased usage can temporarily reduce water pressure.
- Solution: Ensure your water heater is adequately sized to handle peak demands, or consider a tankless water heater for continuous supply.
3. Thermal Expansion Issues
- Expansion Tanks: As water heats up, it expands. Without a proper thermal expansion tank, this can put undue pressure on the system, affecting flow.
- Checklist: Ensure your plumbing system includes an expansion tank to manage pressure changes effectively.
4. Pressure Regulator Malfunctions
- Cold Impact: Water pressure regulators can malfunction in low temperatures, especially if they are older or not well-maintained.
- Maintenance Advice: Regularly check and adjust the pressure regulator to ensure optimal performance year-round.
Addressing these factors can help maintain consistent water pressure throughout the winter months. Regular inspections and maintenance of your plumbing system, especially before the cold season, will mitigate many of these issues, ensuring a steady flow when temperatures drop.
