How to Easily Increase Shower Head Pressure
Filed under: Plumbing tips
Nothing is quite as underwhelming as taking a shower with low water pressure. It can be one of modern life’s minor inconveniences that slow down your morning routine and can be downright annoying at times! Thankfully, there are several ways that a professional plumber can fix the problem:
1. Remove Flow Regulator
In the US, water laws require manufacturers of shower and faucet hardware to restrict water flows to no more than 2.5 gallons per minute as a means of saving water and energy. This regulation encourages good management of precious water resources—but sometimes it can cause showerheads to have less than ideal water pressure. Fortunately, these flow restrictors can be removed or modified.
2. Amplifying Shower Head
If your home has low water pressure in general, you may consider installing an amplifying shower head. These can simulate the flow of a 2.5 gal/min showerhead but operate using only 1.5 gal/min.
3. Pressure Reduction Valve
Since water pressure is set by the water distribution authority, you may not have the ability to “turn up the volume”. If you do have control, it will likely be in the form of a pressure reduction valve found in the supply line to your home. Check to see if your home has one. If so, it can be adjusted to allow additional flow to increase water pressure.
4. Pipe Size
Another cause of low shower head pressure can be incorrect pipe size. If your shower’s water supply lines were installed with pipes that are too small, your pressure would be adversely affected. This project may require a fair amount of pipe rework to improve the water pressure.
5. Mineral Deposits
If your house has older galvanized piping, sometimes buildup of mineral deposits over time can cause water flow constriction. Replacement may be needed.
In all of these scenarios, if you would like to have an expert plumber help you work through the problem, then we can help. Our expert plumbers here at Wells Plumbing, Heating, and Air Conditioning are well versed in finding the correct, most cost-effective solution. We’ll be glad to come out to your home or business to help. Call us today to schedule an appointment at (951) 375-6856.
