Low water pressure is a common problem in many homes across the UK. It can make everyday tasks like showering, washing dishes, or filling the washing machine frustratingly slow. Sometimes, you may even notice that water isn’t coming out of your taps at all. Understanding why your water pressure is low and how to fix it can save time, money, and stress. In this article, we’ll cover the main causes, how to check your water pressure, and practical solutions to get your water flowing normally again.
What is Low Water Pressure?
Water pressure is the force that pushes water through your pipes and out of your taps. It’s measured in bar or psi. In most UK homes, water pressure should be around 1.5–3 bar, which is enough to run multiple taps and appliances at the same time without issues.
Low water pressure occurs when the flow of water is weaker than usual. You may notice slow taps, weak showers, or appliances taking longer to fill. In some cases, you might experience no water at all, which can indicate a more serious problem.
Common Signs of Low Water Pressure
Some signs that your water pressure is low include:
- Weak flow from taps or showers
- Inconsistent water flow
- Hot water is low or uneven
- Appliances taking longer to fill (washing machines, dishwashers)
- Strange noises in pipes (whistling or banging)
If you notice these issues, it’s important to investigate the cause rather than ignoring it.
Why is My Water Pressure Low?
Several factors can cause low water pressure in a home. Here are the most common reasons:
1. Issues with the Water Supply
Sometimes the problem is not inside your home at all. If there is a main water supply issue in your area, you may notice sudden drops in pressure. This can happen due to:
- Maintenance work by your water company
- Burst pipes or leaks in the main supply
- High demand in your neighbourhood
You can check if this is the case by asking your local water supplier or checking their website for notices.
2. Leaks in Your Plumbing
A hidden leak in your house can reduce water pressure. Even a small leak in a pipe can divert water away from your taps, leaving less water flow for daily use. Signs of leaks include:
- Damp patches on walls or ceilings
- Unexpected increase in water bills
- Wet spots around radiators or under sinks
If you suspect a leak, it’s best to call a qualified plumber to find and fix it.
Tip: Some leaks aren’t obvious at first glance. If you want to learn how to spot hidden leaks before they cause serious problems, check out our guide on Signs You Have a Hidden Water Leak in Your Home
3. Clogged Pipes or Fixtures
Over time, limescale and mineral deposits can build up inside pipes, taps, and showerheads. This is common in areas with hard water. The build-up narrows the pipes and reduces water flow.
Check your:
- Showerheads
- Tap aerators
- Pipe valves
Cleaning these regularly can improve water pressure significantly.
4. Old or Faulty Plumbing
Older homes may have outdated plumbing systems with smaller pipes or corroded pipes that restrict water flow. If your home still has galvanised iron pipes, corrosion inside the pipe can cause serious drops in pressure. In these cases, a professional may recommend pipe replacement.
5. Water Pressure Regulator Issues
Some homes have a water pressure regulator installed to prevent pipes from bursting due to high pressure. If the regulator is faulty or set too low, your water pressure may be weaker than normal. Adjusting or replacing the regulator can fix this issue.
6. Problems with Hot Water Systems
If only your hot water pressure is low, the issue may be with your boiler, hot water cylinder, or immersion heater. Sediment can build up in hot water tanks, or the system may need bleeding to remove trapped air.
How to Check Your Water Pressure
Before you try any fixes, it’s useful to measure your water pressure. You can do this with a simple pressure gauge, which attaches to an outdoor tap or your washing machine valve.
- Normal pressure: 1.5–3 bar
- Low pressure: below 1.5 bar
If your pressure is very low, it may be time to call a plumber, especially if it affects multiple taps and appliances.
How to Fix Low Water Pressure
Depending on the cause, there are several ways to improve water pressure in your home.
1. Clean Tap Aerators and Showerheads
If limescale is the problem, removing and soaking taps and showerheads in vinegar can clear the build-up. This is an easy DIY fix that often improves water flow.
2. Check for Leaks
Inspect your home for visible leaks. If you find damp patches or dripping pipes, call a plumber to repair them. Fixing leaks not only restores water pressure but also saves water and money.
3. Adjust the Water Pressure Regulator
If your home has a pressure regulator, check if it is set too low. You can carefully adjust it to increase pressure, but be cautious. Too high pressure can damage your plumbing.
4. Install a Boosting Pump
For homes with generally low pressure from the mains, a water pressure boosting pump can increase flow throughout the house. This is a common solution in older homes or properties at the end of the supply line.
5. Replace Old Pipes
If your pipes are corroded or too narrow, replacing them with modern pipes (like copper or PEX) can improve water pressure and prevent future issues.
6. Maintain Your Hot Water System
For hot water pressure issues, check your cylinder or boiler. Bleed radiators, remove sediment from the tank, and ensure the system is balanced. A plumber can help with more complex maintenance.
7. Contact Your Water Supplier
Sometimes the problem is external. If your water pressure is low across multiple homes in your area, your local water company can advise if there are supply issues or planned works affecting pressure.
Preventing Low Water Pressure
Once you’ve restored water pressure, these tips can help prevent problems in the future:
- Regularly clean taps and showerheads
- Check for leaks every few months
- Monitor your water pressure using a gauge
- Service your boiler and hot water system annually
- Consider installing a pressure booster if your area is known for low mains pressure
When to Call a Plumber
While some fixes are DIY-friendly, certain issues require a professional:
- Leaks hidden behind walls or ceilings
- Corroded or outdated plumbing
- Faulty pressure regulators or boilers
- Water pressure issues affecting only hot water
A qualified plumber can quickly diagnose the problem and provide a safe, long-term solution.
Final Thoughts
Low water pressure in your home can be frustrating, but in most cases, the issue can be fixed with a little investigation and maintenance. Whether it’s cleaning tap aerators, adjusting your pressure regulator, or calling a plumber for more serious problems, taking action quickly will save time, water, and money.
Understanding the causes and solutions also helps you prevent future problems, ensuring your home always has a steady, reliable flow of water. Don’t ignore weak taps or slow showers—fixing low water pressure makes a big difference to your daily life.