Low water pressure can be more than just an inconvenience. Whether you’re a homeowner struggling with a dribbling shower or a business owner facing disruptions to operations, weak water flow is a problem that demands attention. At PGS, we’ve helped countless domestic and commercial clients identify and resolve water pressure issues. Here’s what could be causing your low pressure — and how to fix it.
What Is Low Water Pressure?
Water pressure refers to the force that pushes water through your pipes and out of your taps, showers, and appliances. Low pressure means reduced flow, which can result in poor shower performance, slow-filling toilets, and appliances that don’t work efficiently.
Common Causes of Low Water Pressure
1. Closed or Partially Closed Valves
One of the simplest and most common culprits, especially in homes, is a shut or partially closed stopcock or internal isolation valve. If you’ve recently had plumbing work done, the valves may not have been fully reopened.
Tip: Check the main stop valve (usually under the kitchen sink) and ensure it’s fully turned anti-clockwise (and then a quarter turn back to protect the valve).
2. Leaking or Damaged Pipes
A hidden leak in your plumbing system can cause a significant drop in water pressure. For businesses operating on larger systems, even a small leak can have a big impact. Signs of a leak include damp patches, mould, or an unexplained rise in your water bill.
Professional solution: PGS offers leak detection services using non-invasive technology to locate and fix the problem with minimal disruption.
3. Shared Supply Pipes
In many older residential areas and some commercial premises, water is supplied through shared mains pipes. During peak usage times, such as mornings and early evenings, you may experience lower pressure simply because everyone else is using water at the same time.
Upgrade option: A dedicated supply line or installation of a booster pump can dramatically improve water flow.
4. Clogged or Corroded Pipes
Over time, mineral deposits and rust can build up inside pipes, particularly in older buildings. This narrows the internal diameter and restricts water flow.
Long-term fix: Replacing outdated pipework with modern materials can not only improve pressure but also enhance water quality.
5. Faulty Pressure-Reducing Valves (PRVs)
Both domestic and commercial properties may be fitted with PRVs to manage water pressure levels. If these fail or are incorrectly set, your pressure may be unnecessarily low.
Expert check-up: Our engineers at PGS can inspect, adjust, or replace faulty valves to ensure optimal system performance.
Professional solution: PGS offers leak detection services using non-invasive technology to locate and fix the problem with minimal disruption.
6. Problems with the Water Supplier
Sometimes, the issue lies outside your property. Water companies occasionally carry out maintenance or experience faults in the supply network, which can affect pressure.
What you can do: Check with your water supplier or visit their website for updates.
Professional solution: PGS offers leak detection services using non-invasive technology to locate and fix the problem with minimal disruption.
7. Inadequate System Design
Commercial buildings, especially those with multiple floors or high demand, often suffer from poor water pressure due to under-engineered plumbing systems. In domestic settings, pressure may be insufficient for modern appliances like power showers and dishwashers.
If the flow at your tap is insufficient, it could well be down to the design of tap. Some models are made specifically for high or low pressure systems & won’t work effectively on the wrong system.
Custom solutions: PGS specialises in designing and installing bespoke pressure-boosting systems, including booster pumps, accumulator tanks, and unvented cylinders.
How PGS Can Help
At PGS, we understand that water pressure issues can be disruptive and stressful — especially when you don’t know what’s causing them. That’s why we offer:
- Comprehensive diagnostics
- Leak detection and repair
- System upgrades
- Commercial water pressure management
- 24/7 emergency support
Whether you’re a homeowner with a frustratingly slow tap or a business manager concerned about operations, we’re here to help.
Don’t put up with low water pressure. Contact PGS today for a fast, friendly, and professional service that puts your water back in full flow.
Call us on 01908 569031 email info@pgsolutions.co.uk or fill out our online contact form – we’re here to help!