Over the years, we have spoken with many customers who have experienced issues with reduced water pressure or low water flow rate. Often, these customers will find that installing the EasyWater No-Salt Conditioner will solve this problem! We have offered below the 7 most common reasons why you might be experiencing reduced water pressure or low water flow rate in your home, along with several solutions. If you have tried everything and can’t determine the reason for your reduced water pressure, we highly recommend contacting a licensed plumber for more help in diagnosing the situation.

1. Scale build-up in pipes

Natural minerals in water will eventually build up and coat the insides of pipes, especially your hot water pipes, if left untreated. Over time, this mineral (scale) build-up will continue to form, and your pipes will continue to narrow. The amount of build-up present in your hot water pipes will depend on three main factors: the age of your home, the hardness of your water, and the temperature of your hot water. If you live in a very hard water area, or if your home is more than 30 years old, you might want to consider speaking with a licensed plumber to determine if your low water pressure problem is due to limescale build-up. Many plumbers will recommend the replacement of your pipes, but the EasyWater No-Salt Conditioner will actually remove this build-up over a period of several weeks to several months.

2. Poorly performing or old water filter or softener

Water treatment equipment that is not sized correctly for your home, or that has old or worn out media, can contribute to low water pressure in your home. To test this, simply place your water softener or filter on “bypass.” If you have a cartridge-type filter, replace the cartridge. You might find that this simple change is enough to increase your water pressure to an acceptable level. You can then install a water treatment system more suited to your needs. The EasyWater No-Salt Conditioner is a great option, as it will not reduce water pressure at all.

3. New plumbing features

Have you recently replaced a plumbing fixture, or added something new to your plumbing system? It’s possible that your plumbing system might not be big enough to handle your increased flow rate needs. If you suspect that a new plumbing feature might have caused low water pressure, contact a licensed plumber to discuss your options.

4. Water shut-off valves are not fully in the “Open” position

If you have recently turned off your water supply due to a vacation or because of having plumbing work done, it’s possible that your water supply valves are not fully open. It is possible to experience drastic reductions in water pressure or flow rate, even if the valve is closed by as little as a quarter-turn. Start by checking the valve next to the water meter, then any main water line valves. If your flow rate issue is limited to just one or two sinks, make sure that the point-of-use valves in these areas are fully open.

5. Fixture is clogged

Sediment or limescale can build up in faucet aerator screens and behind showerheads. Simply unscrew the faucet aerator or showerhead and soak in vinegar overnight, then scrub with a small brush. Installing the EasyWater No-Salt Conditioner will remove existing limescale, and ensure that it no longer builds up in these areas.

6. Broken pressure regulator / relief valve

Pressure regulators are bell-shaped devices located near the main shut-off valve or at the water meter. You can test your pressure regulator by installing a pressure gauge after the pressure regulator. If the gauge reads lower than the pressure that you have set on the regulator, you might have a faulty pressure regulator. Contact a licensed plumber to help you replace it.

7. You have a leak

A leak anywhere in your home’s plumbing lines will result in a reduced flow rate to your faucets and showers. A simple way to test for leaks is to commit to keeping all of the faucets in your home off for a period of 3 hours. Check your water meter at the beginning of the 3 hours, and again at the end. If the water meter moves at all, you will know that you have a leak. A licensed plumber will be able to find and repair the leak.

If you have questions or comments, please share them with us!