Low water pressure is a common complaint among Albuquerque homeowners. Pressure can become so feeble that it becomes time-consuming to wash dishes, shower or water plants. There really are just a handful of reasons that the pressure declines, so zeroing in on the cause may not be particularly difficult. Some fixes can be done by a homeowner but others take a visit from a plumber.
If you’re tired of your low water pressure, check out our list below and start zeroing in on the cause.
1. Sediment Buildup Inside Pipes: Albuquerque is notorious for its hard water. Over time, minerals like calcium and magnesium can accumulate as scale inside your pipes, fixtures, and appliances. Eventually, scale can shrink the inside diameter of your pipes and even cause blockages. This is especially true in homes with older galvanized or copper plumbing. If your water pressure has reduced over time and is worse in hot water lines, this could be your culprit.
What to do: Some types of pipe can be professionally descaled, so start with an inspection and some testing. For an older home with plumbing that has not been updated, investment in new pipes is often the best answer. Also, a water softener can prevent future buildup.
2. Partially Closed Valves: Your home has multiple shutoff valves. There’s one near the water meter and another where the main line enters your house. If one of these valves isn’t fully open, your entire water supply can be restricted. After plumbing work or a visit from a utility, these valves may not be fully open.
What to do: Find and check each shutoff valve. Make sure they’re fully open. Sometimes valves get stuck due to corrosion. If you try to force it, you could make things worse. Call a plumber to replace the valve.
3. Faulty Pressure Regulator: A pressure regulating valve adjusts the pressure of water coming from the city before it enters your home. If your water pressure is too high, it can damage your appliances. These valves can wear out; a failure of this valve can suddenly decrease water pressure or create an inconsistent water flow. (Note: Not all homes in the Albuquerque area have one of these valves.)
What to do:
A plumber can test your valve with a pressure gauge. If it’s faulty, it needs to be replaced promptly. In Albuquerque, the ideal household water pressure is between 50 and 75 PSI. Anything significantly above or below that range could signal a problem.
4. Plumbing System Leaks: Even small leaks can cause a loss of water pressure. In Albuquerque’s drier climate, underground leaks don’t always create puddles, so they may be unnoticed until pressure problems show up or your water bill spikes. In addition to lowered water pressure, watch for higher water bills and damp areas in the yard or near the foundation.
What to do:
If you suspect a leak, shut off all water inside your home and check the water meter. If a needle or other symbol on the face of the meter is still moving, there’s a leak somewhere. Leak detection tools help us pinpoint the location. At Rocketman Plumbing, we offer non-invasive leak detection to avoid unnecessary digging.
5. City Water Supply Issues: It’s possible that the problem isn’t inside your home at all. Maintenance, upgrades or construction can temporarily affect water pressure for your whole neighborhood.
What to do: First, ask your neighbors if their water pressure is also low. You can also check with the Water Authority about any problems in your area. Municipal problems usually resolve in a few hours. If it persists, contact Rocketman Plumbing for an inspection of your home.
We’re the Right Help for All Your Plumbing Problems
In Albuquerque, Rocketman Plumbing has been helping homeowners maintain great water pressure for many years. Whether you live in an older home, a newer build, or a rural property on a well system, we’ll show up fast and get your household back to normal. Call us at (505)-243-1227 as soon as you need help.
