You step into the shower, ready for a refreshing experience, but instead of a strong, invigorating flow, you’re greeted with a weak trickle. Sound familiar? You’re not the only one.
At EPM, we’ve had plenty of calls from homeowners in Exeter asking, “Why is my shower losing water pressure?” It’s a common issue, and there are a few reasons it might be happening. Here’s what you need to know.
1. Blocked Showerhead
Let’s start with the obvious: the showerhead. Over time, mineral deposits and limescale can build up and block the holes in your showerhead. And even though Exeter doesn’t have hard water, some level of buildup can still occur, especially in older showerheads.
The Fix:
Give it a good soak in white vinegar overnight to loosen up the limescale.
After that, scrub with a brush to get rid of any remaining blockages.
It’s a quick fix, and it could be all you need to get the water pressure back to normal.
2. Low Water Pressure Throughout the Whole House
If it’s not just the shower, but your taps and other appliances, it could be a general water pressure issue in your home. This can happen if there’s a problem with the mains water supply or a pressure-reducing valve that’s gone out of whack.
The Fix:
Check with your water supplier to see if there’s a local issue.
If it’s a household-wide issue, you might need to install a pressure booster pump to increase water pressure throughout your home.
3. Shower Valve Issues
our shower valve controls the temperature and pressure of the water. Over time, if your valve is faulty, it could affect how much water flows to your showerhead.
The Fix:
If you have an old valve or it’s become faulty, it might be time to replace the valve. This is a job for a professional plumber.
4. Water Leaks in Pipes
Leaks are sneaky. You might not even know they’re there, but if your pipes are leaking, it’s draining the pressure from your shower. Sometimes these leaks are in hard-to-reach areas, like behind walls or under the floor.
The Fix:
If you notice any signs of water damage or damp spots in your home, it’s time to get your plumbing checked out by a professional.
5. Faulty Pressure Regulator
If your home has a pressure regulator, or Pressure reducing valve (designed to control the water flow into your house), it could be malfunctioning and causing your shower to lose pressure.
The Fix:
You’ll need a qualified plumber to replace or repair the pressure regulator to get your shower flowing properly again.
6. A Water-Saving Showerhead
Many homeowners install water-saving showerheads to reduce water consumption and lower bills. While these are great for the environment, they can sometimes reduce water pressure too much for comfort.
Fix It:
If you prefer a stronger shower, consider switching to a showerhead with higher flow.
When to Call a Professional
If you’ve tried the DIY fixes and you’re still facing low water pressure, it might be time to call in the experts. At EPM, we’ve helped homeowners across Exeter get their water pressure back to normal.
Why Call Us?
We’ll diagnose the issue quickly and efficiently.
We can fix any hidden leaks or pressure problems.
We can also advise you on water softeners and shower upgrades.
Final Thoughts from EPM
A drop in shower pressure doesn’t have to be a permanent issue. Whether it’s something simple like a clogged showerhead or a deeper problem with your plumbing, we’ve seen it all — and we’re here to help.
So, the next time you step into the shower and notice that trickle instead of a stream, remember: there’s always a solution.
Need help getting your water pressure back to normal?
Call us today, and we’ll take care of the rest.
Other articles you might find useful:
- Is Your Shower Running Cold? Here’s What to Check (Before You Call Someone Out)
- The Problem with Replacing Shower Cartridges (And How to Avoid Costly Mistakes)
- 7 Common Plumbing Problems in UK Homes & How to Fix Them
