The most common cause of low shower pressure is a blocked showerhead, as a result of limescale build-up. These blockages obstruct the water flow, leading to reduced pressure over time. Most showers are fitted with a filter, protecting the pipework from debris, but this can become partially blocked by scale.
Old pipes, especially ones made from metal, can corrode or rust from the inside. If mineral deposits are stuck in a water supply pipe, they can disrupt the flow to your shower (or other faucets). Similarly, if you have a small leak somewhere in your plumbing, low water pressure could be a noticeable symptom.
The quickest way to increase your water pressure is by making sure your water valve is fully open. If you can see that your stopcock is turned slightly, you know that this is probably causing the lack of power in your shower, so simply turn it anti-clockwise and you should notice a significant improvement.
For water conservation purposes, most plumbing codes require faucets and showering devices to not exceed a certain maximum flow rate. Removing the flow restrictors could cause these devices to no longer meet these codes.
Many modern shower heads are designed specifically to increase the pressure of the water coming out of the showerhead itself. So, while they can't increase the actual water pressure of the home, they do improve the showering experience.
Most low-flow showerheads have a rubber pressure-reducing valve (called a regulator) to maintain a lower pressure. You can increase the flow by simply taking it out. You could also consider enlarging the hole that allows water into your showerhead with a drill to increase the amount of water coming through.
Fixture Problems
Mineral deposits made up of limestone, rust, and sediment collect inside the fixture which has the potential to block the free flow of water through the fixture. This is the likely culprit for low water pressure if you only have one or two areas that experience pressure issues.
To replace a shower valve, you really need to be an experienced home improvement DIYer. To replace a shower valve is a far more complicated task than changing a showerhead. A good knowledge of plumbing is absolutely necessary to do this job successfully.
One of the most common causes of low pressure to a kitchen or bathroom sink faucet is debris or mineral buildup in the aerator. The aerator is the tiny screen that you see at the end of your faucet.
Once you've installed your shower head, switch on the cold water supply and allow the water to run for between 10 and 15 seconds. After this, do the same with the hot side. If you are performing a shower valve test with air, simply follow the same procedure.
Like older standard shower valves, pressure-balance shower valves have inner cartridges that wear out and eventually go bad. When it does, the cartridge may not mix the water evenly and you might get mostly hot or mostly cold water. Or, you may also get barely any water at all.
The center of the restrictor is shaped like a star, or similarly shaped, and comes in a variety of colors. It's found behind where the shower head screws off of the pipe coming out of the wall or at the end of the flexible hosing of a handheld shower head.
Do All New Shower Heads Have Flow Restrictors? Not all new shower heads come with flow restrictors. While many brands focus on water and energy efficiency, it's not a universal feature. So, before you make a purchase, it's a good idea to check the specifications and ensure they fit your needs.
Two big reasons: To help lower utility bills -- and to conserve water. According to the EPA, the average family could save 2,700 gallons per year by installing WaterSense labeled showerheads. Since these water savings will reduce demands on water heaters, they will also save energy.
A properly installed shower valve should serve you well for a long time. Even if you live in an area with hard water that causes limescale build-up in your appliances, you can expect to have a shower valve work well for about four or five years.
If you're experiencing reduced water flow during your shower, a clogged valve may be the cause. Over time, mineral deposits can build up and prevent your fixture from operating correctly.
The two primary types are pressure-balance valves and thermostatic valves. The chief distinction between the two? A thermostatic valve senses and controls the actual water temperature, while a pressure-balance valve senses and controls only the ratio of hot water to cold.
If the problem only occurs in one fixture – whether it's the sink, shower or tub – that fixture probably needs to be cleaned or replaced. For faucets, a clogged aerator can lessen water pressure. Clean faucets by unscrewing the nozzle and placing it in a solution of vinegar and water.