The only thing more frustrating than having no water pressure is having low water pressure. There are a number of factors that could be causing the pressure in your pipes to drop, but not all of them can be traced back to your own system. Before calling the plumber, it pays to first understand a thing or two about the basic mechanisms that control your water pressure levels.

Let our professional plumbers at McLay walk you through some easy troubleshooting tips to help you determine whether the problem is in your home or is originating from your provider.

Think Like a Plumber

You don’t have to be a plumber to use a water pressure test gauge to measure your current pressure. You can find this tool in your local handyman shop. First turn off anything and everything that draws water from your pipes. This means temporarily disconnecting the plumbing connections of your dishwasher and washing machine. Then screw the gauge to an outdoor hose spigot. This is fairly easy, as the device attaches to the spigot just like a garden hose. You want a reading between 60 and 75 psi. Anything below means you have low pressure, and anything higher (80 and above) indicates too much water pressure.

Ask the Neighbors

To eliminate the possibility of a municipal-wide problem, you can call a plumber or ask around your neighborhood. If your neighbors are having the same problem, there’s a good chance that the issue is happening everywhere. Give your local provider a call to confirm the problem and get more information about possible solutions.

Basic Troubleshooting

Your plumber typically shuts off the water main and your meter at the street level before carrying out repairs. When turned back on, they’re sometimes not turned on completely, leaving your home with low pressure. Check these valves to make sure that they’re fully open. If you have a regulator, you should check it as well. If the problem persists, contact a professional right away.

Resolve Water Pressure Issues by Calling Our Professionals Today

Our plumbing experts at McLay are committed to helping you spot, identify and fix all your plumbing concerns. Call us today at (909) 392-2202 or fill out our online contact form for a free inspection or service quote. We serve homeowners in La Verne and nearby areas.