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.