Low Water Pressure: Causes and Fixes
Short answer
If only one fixture is weak, start with the aerator or the fixture cartridge. If the whole property lost pressure, suspect a partially closed valve, a failing pressure regulator, corroded galvanized piping, or a leak in the service line.
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One fixture vs. whole house
- One fixture: clogged aerator, blocked cartridge, kinked supply line
- Hot side only: water heater shutoff partly closed, sediment, failing flex connector
- Whole house: pressure regulator failure, main valve not fully open, service line leak, aged galvanized pipe
- Intermittent: municipal supply work or demand-related pressure changes
When it signals something worse
A sudden, unexplained pressure drop across the whole property deserves prompt attention because it can indicate a break in the supply line — often before you see any surface water.
Frequently asked questions
What is normal residential water pressure?
Most homes operate comfortably in the 40–60 psi range, and many jurisdictions require a pressure-reducing valve above roughly 80 psi. A plumber can measure it with a gauge at a hose bib.
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