Common Causes of Low Hot Water Pressure
Are you experiencing drizzling water pressure in your shower? We are sorry to hear; low hot water pressure can be such a pain and the last thing you want to deal with after a long day when you are looking forward to a steamy hot shower. Stick with us. Although frustrating, low hot water pressure is a relatively common plumbing occurrence, and with our expert advice, we will be able to talk you through the possible causes in no time. Tackling your low hot water pressure is essential; it’s not just about comfort; proper water pressure is essential for the efficient operation of appliances and can even be a safety concern if left unchecked.
There’s a chance it could be a simple fix, and you will be back to cranking the hot water in no time, or if luck has it that you require a professional plumber Brisbane-wide, D&S Plumbing Group can be there — stat.
For those who want to cut to the chase: Low hot water pressure can be caused by a whole heap of reasons, including sediment buildup, faulty pressure regulators, blocked pipes, or issues with your hot water system. In our extensive guide, we will explore common causes and solutions to help you troubleshoot and potentially fix the problem. For complex plumbing issues, it’s best to contact an experienced plumber.
Unfortunately, if you are experiencing low hot water pressure in your home, we don’t have a one-size-fits-all answer as to why this could be. However, there are some common causes that we will get into below to point you in the right direction.
Sediment Build-up in the Hot Water Tank
One of the most common causes of low hot water pressure is sediment buildup in your hot water system. Over time and regular use, minerals and debris can accumulate in your hot water tank or pipes, which leads to restricted water flow.
Signs of sediment build-up include:
- Reduced hot water output
- Strange noises from the tank
- Cloudy or discoloured water
What to do: To avoid sediment buildup, you should flush your hot water system regularly. If the problem persists, you may need to replace your hot water tank.
Corroded Plumbing
Older homes with galvanised steel pipes are particularly susceptible to corrosion, which can restrict water flow.
Signs of corroded plumbing include:
- Discoloured water
- Frequent leaks
- Visible rust on exposed pipes
What to do: Professional pipe cleaning or pipe replacement may be needed to resolve this issue. We recommend leaving it to the experts if you suspect corroded pipes may be to blame for your low hot water pressure.
Faulty Pressure Regulator
Water leaks can cause a drop in pressure, especially if they are large and have been left undiagnosed for some time. Check for any signs of leaks in your plumbing system, especially around your hot water tank and supply lines.
Common leak locations include:
- Under sinks
- Around toilet bases
- In walls or ceilings (look for water stains)
What to do: Repair any leaks promptly to prevent further damage and restore proper pressure.
Leaking Pipes
A ‘pressure regulator’ controls your home’s water pressure. If this device fails, it can lead to low pressure in your hot and cold water supply lines.
To test your regulator:
- Use a pressure gauge on an outside tap
- Normal pressure should be between 40-60 psi
What to do: Check your pressure regulator’s settings and consider replacing it if there’s a problem.
Issues with the Hot Water Heater
Low hot water pressure can result from problems with your hot water system itself, such as a failing heater or issues with the tempering valve. Problems with your hot water system can affect the pressure.
Signs of problems with your hot water heater include:
- Inconsistent water temperature
- Unusual noises from the tank
- Visible leaks around the unit
What to do: Have a professional plumber inspect your hot water system to identify and fix any problems. A professional plumber can also identify if your hot water heater needs replacing.
Partially Closed Valves
Sometimes, if you are lucky, the solution is as simple as a partially closed valve. Check the shutoff valve near your water meter and any valves leading to your hot water system.
To check for partially closed valves, you should take a look at:
- The main shutoff valve
- Valves near your water heater
- Individual fixture shutoff valves
What to do: Ensure all valves are fully open to allow maximum water flow.
Aerator Blockages or Clogged Shower Head
Sometimes, low hot water pressure can stem from individual fixtures in your shower. Mineral deposits can clog shower heads and tap aerators, reducing water flow.
Signs of a blocked aerator include:
- Uneven water spray
- Reduced flow from specific taps
What to do: Clean or replace affected shower heads and aerators.
How to Fix Low Hot Water Pressure: Simple Tips
Flushing the Hot Water Tank
Step-by-step guide to flushing the tank to remove sediment:
- Turn off the power to your water heater
- Connect a garden hose to the drain valve
- Open the valve and let water flow through it until it runs clear
- Then close the valve and refill the tank
- Turn the power back on for the water heater
Safety precautions and tips:
- Wear appropriate clothing and protection. We recommend gloves and eye protection just to be safe.
- Be cautious of hot water – allow the tank to fully cool down before flushing
- Ensure proper ventilation in the area
- If you are feeling unsure, leave it to the experts and consult a professional plumber
Replacing Corroded Pipes
If your water pressure problems are stemming from corroded pipes, you could notice a world of difference by replacing these pipes. There are multiple pipe replacement options available, including:
- Copper pipes: Pros – long-lasting, antimicrobial; Cons – expensive, difficult to install
- PEX pipes: Pros – flexible, freeze-resistant; Cons – can’t be used outdoors, shorter lifespan than copper
- CPVC pipes: Pros – affordable, easy to install; Cons – can become brittle over time
If you need help making a decision on the best pipes for your home, our expert team can walk you through the decision process, ensuring we find the perfect fit for your hot water system. We recommend calling in a professional plumber to help with replacing corroded pipes, especially if you need to undergo whole-house repiping or if you are dealing with main water lines.
Adjusting or Replacing the Pressure Regulator
If your hot water pressure issues stem from your pressure regulator, this is a relatively easy fix. To check and adjust the pressure regulator, you can:
- Locate the regulator near the main water line
- Use a pressure gauge to check current pressure
- Adjust the screw on top of the regulator clockwise to increase pressure
- Recheck pressure and adjust as needed
If the adjustments make no difference to your pressure or if the regulator is visibly damaged, it may be time to call in an expert and consider replacing your regulator.
Repairing Leaks
A leak can be a pesky problem that eats away at your water supply and reduces water pressure. While sometimes leaks can be a super simple at-home fix, sometimes they require a more expert eye.
If you are game to take a look yourself, some quick fixes for minor leaks include:
- Tighten loose connections with a wrench
- Apply plumber’s tape to threaded connections
- Use a pipe clamp for small holes in pipes
When to call a professional:
- For leaks inside walls or ceilings (you may notice wet patches)
- If quick fixes don’t stop the leak
- When dealing with main water line leaks
Maintaining the Hot Water Heater
A big part of keeping your hot water systems in good condition and the hot water supply at a consistent pressure involves maintaining your hot water heater. By maintaining your hot water heater, you can ensure its safe functioning and expand its lifespan by spotting potential issues before they become major problems.
Regular maintenance steps include:
- Check the pressure relief valve every year
- Inspect the anode rod every 3-5 years
- Flush the tank yearly to remove build-up or sediment
Ensuring Valves are Fully Open
As we touched on earlier, partially closed valves can cause hot water system problems, including reducing water pressure. Fully open valves ensure you are receiving maximum water flow, so regularly checking on your valves can help to prevent pressure loss.
Simple checks and adjustments you can make yourself include:
- Locate all shutoff valves in your home
- Turn them counterclockwise until they stop
- Check both the main water valve and individual fixture valves
Cleaning Aerators
Regularly removing and cleaning aerators is a good way to ensure high hot water pressure. Ideally, this should be completed every 6 to 12 months.
Guide to removing and cleaning aerators:
- Unscrew the aerator from the tap (grab a pair of pliers if stuck)
- Disassemble the aerator components
- Soak the parts in a vinegar solution for a few hours
- Scrub gently with a soft brush
- Rinse thoroughly and reassemble as it was before
Preventive Measures to Maintain Optimal Hot Water Pressure
If you are looking to avoid hot water pressure problems in the future, it is important to maintain your plumbing system. This involves both maintaining your plumbing system yourself as per our above tips and organising regular professional inspections.
How often? We recommend booking annual plumbing inspections to identify potential issues before they arise and keep your plumbing system in top-notch condition.
Low hot water pressure can be a frustrating problem, but armed with the right information and sometimes the right expert pair of hands, it’s often more easily fixed than you might think. Whether it’s a simple fix like cleaning a shower head or a more complex issue requiring professional help, understanding the potential causes is the first step to getting your hot water back in order. We hope this blog post has helped you to identify the issue with your hot water system. If you are still on the fence about the underlying cause, please reach out to our friendly team, and we will help you get to the bottom of it.
