Bob Vila Radio: The Lowdown on Low Water Pressure

Not getting enough water-pressure punch? If the problem extends to multiple fixtures throughout the home, solving it requires a little detective work.

By Bob Vila | Updated Aug 20, 2017 5:21 PM

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Low water pressure: It’s a real nuisance, not least because of regrettable situations like having to slow dance in your shower to wash off the soap. If you’re tired of underwhelming output at each fixture in your home, here are a couple things you can try on your own first, before calling a pro.

What to Do About Low Water Pressure

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Listen to BOB VILA ON WHAT TO DO ABOUT LOW WATER PRESSURE or read below:

Water flows into your home through the main valve. Make sure it’s fully open! Also, check with your neighbors. If they’re experiencing low water pressure too—and especially if the block has seen any odd drainage issues—it’s well worth complaining to the municipality. An underground leak may be to blame.

If neighbors aren’t experiencing water-pressure problems, double-check that the main water valve in your home isn’t outfitted with a pressure reducer. A previous owner may have installed one to reduce water bills. By the same token, note that if and when you call in a plumber, he may recommend the installation of a water-pressure booster—a viable option for when all else fails.

Bob Vila Radio is a 60-second home improvement radio tip of the day carried on more than 186 stations in 75 markets around the country. Click here to subscribe, so you can automatically receive each new episode as it arrives—absolutely free!