Why Does My Water Pressure Fluctuate – How To Fix It

Water pressure fluctuations are a common problem that homeowners face. It can be frustrating to experience low water pressure when you are trying to take a shower or wash dishes, and it can be just as irritating to experience high water pressure that can damage your plumbing system. In this post, we will explore the reasons why your water pressure might fluctuate and provide you with some tips on how to fix it.

Why does my water pressure fluctuate

Faulty Pressure Regulator

A faulty pressure regulator can be one of the most common causes of fluctuating water pressure. The regulator is responsible for controlling the pressure of water that enters your home’s plumbing system. When the regulator is faulty, it can cause water pressure to fluctuate. You can easily check whether the pressure regulator is faulty by installing a water pressure gauge at the main water line entering your home. If the reading shows that the pressure is below or above the recommended level, then it is likely that the pressure regulator is faulty.

To fix this issue, you will need to replace the pressure regulator. This is a task that should be handled by a professional plumber, as it involves working with your home’s plumbing system.

Clogged Pipes

Another common cause of water pressure fluctuations is clogged pipes. Over time, debris and mineral buildup can accumulate inside your pipes, causing a reduction in water flow and pressure. This can lead to fluctuations in water pressure throughout your home.

To fix this issue, you will need to clean your pipes. One way to do this is by using a hydro jetting machine, which uses high-pressure water to blast away the debris and mineral buildup inside your pipes. Another option is to use a plumbing snake to manually remove the debris from your pipes.

Leaking Pipes

A leaking pipe can also cause water pressure fluctuations. When water leaks out of your pipes, it reduces the amount of water that reaches your faucets, causing a drop in water pressure. Additionally, the leaking water can cause damage to your pipes, leading to further water pressure fluctuations.

To fix this issue, you will need to locate and repair the leaking pipes. If the leak is minor, you may be able to fix it yourself with a pipe repair kit. However, if the leak is more significant, you should call a professional plumber to fix the problem.

Water Meter Issues

The water meter is responsible for measuring the amount of water that enters your home. If the water meter is faulty, it can cause water pressure fluctuations. This is because the water meter is designed to regulate the amount of water that enters your home, and if it is not functioning properly, it can cause fluctuations in water pressure.

To fix this issue, you will need to contact your water company and have them inspect the water meter. They may need to replace the water meter if it is faulty.

Municipal Water Supply Issues

Sometimes, water pressure fluctuations can be caused by issues with the municipal water supply. For example, if there is a high demand for water in your area, it can cause a drop in water pressure. Additionally, if there is maintenance work being done on the municipal water supply system, it can also cause fluctuations in water pressure.

Unfortunately, there is not much you can do to fix this issue, as it is out of your control. The best thing you can do is to wait for the water supply to return to normal.

Water Softener Issues

If you have a water softener installed in your home, it can also cause water pressure fluctuations. This is because water softeners work by removing minerals from the water, which can cause a drop in water pressure.

To fix this issue, you will need to adjust the settings on your water softener or have it repaired by a professional.

Conclusion

In conclusion, water pressure fluctuations can be a frustrating problem to deal with, but they can be fixed with the right approach. The first step is to identify the cause of the problem, which may require some investigation and troubleshooting. Once you have identified the cause, you can take steps to fix the issue and restore normal water pressure in your home.

It’s important to note that some of the solutions to water pressure fluctuations, such as replacing a pressure regulator or repairing a leaking pipe, may require the services of a professional plumber. While it may be tempting to try to fix the problem yourself, working with your home’s plumbing system can be dangerous and may cause further damage if done incorrectly.

Regular maintenance of your home’s plumbing system can also help prevent water pressure fluctuations from occurring in the first place. This includes flushing your pipes regularly, checking for leaks, and ensuring that your pressure regulator is functioning correctly.

In summary, water pressure fluctuations can be caused by a range of factors, from clogged pipes to faulty pressure regulators. By identifying the cause of the problem and taking steps to fix it, you can restore normal water pressure in your home and avoid damage to your plumbing system. If you are unsure about how to fix the problem or feel uncomfortable working with your home’s plumbing system, it is best to contact a professional plumber for assistance.