Why Your Shower’s Losing Pressure (And How to Possibly Fix It Without Replacing Everything)
Nothing kills a relaxing shower faster than a sad trickle of water. If your shower has been losing pressure, don't panic. Most of the time, the cause is minor and easily fixed. Here’s how to diagnose the problem and what you can do without replacing your entire plumbing system.
1. Check for Mineral Buildup
Hard water is a major cause of clogged showerheads, especially in northeastern Arizona.
Homes in Snowflake, Taylor, Show Low, Pinetop-Lakeside, and Heber often experience moderate to very hard water. This leads to faster buildup in fixtures.
You can check your exact water hardness by contacting your local utility or visiting the Arizona Department of Water Resources or your city's water quality report page.
DIY Fix: Remove your showerhead and soak it overnight in white vinegar to dissolve calcium deposits. Use a toothbrush to scrub the nozzles before reinstalling.
2. Inspect the Shutoff Valves
Ensure all valves, including the main supply and those near the shower, are fully open.
Even slightly closed valves can significantly restrict pressure.
DIY Fix: Turn valves counterclockwise to confirm they're fully open. If you encounter resistance or corrosion, call for a professional assessment.
3. Pressure Regulator Issues
Many homes built after the 1980s have a pressure regulator that controls water pressure throughout the house.
A faulty regulator can cause drops in pressure at all fixtures.
DIY Fix: You can visually inspect the regulator (usually located near the main shutoff) for signs of rust or wear, but testing requires a gauge or plumber.
4. Pipe Leaks or Corrosion
Low pressure isolated to one area can indicate a hidden leak or corrosion.
If your home was built before the 1980s and your plumbing hasn't been inspected or modernized by us, this can be a contributing factor.
DIY Fix: Look for signs like damp spots on walls, ceilings, or flooring. Use a flashlight to inspect under sinks and behind appliances.
5. Clogged Cartridges or Valves Inside the Shower Faucet
Shower mixing valves and cartridges can clog internally with debris from hard water or rust.
DIY Fix: If you’re comfortable with tools, shut off water, disassemble the faucet, and inspect/clean or replace the cartridge. Always follow your faucet brand's instructions.
6. When to Call a Pro
If DIY fixes don't improve pressure, the issue could lie deeper in your plumbing system—from failed regulators to partially collapsed lines.
We use advanced diagnostic tools like pressure gauges, and flow sensors to pinpoint issues fast.
