💧 Why Your Water Pressure Is Low — and How to Fix It

Few things are more frustrating than stepping into the shower only to be met with a weak trickle of water. Low water pressure can make washing dishes, doing laundry, and even brushing your teeth a hassle. The good news? The cause is usually fixable — and sometimes easier than you think.

At Cole’s Plumbing, we help homeowners across the Gulf Coast get their water flowing strong again. Here’s a look at the most common reasons your water pressure might be low and what you can do about it.

🔎 1. Check for a Partially Closed Shut-Off Valve

If your home’s main shut-off valve isn’t fully open, it can reduce water flow to every fixture in the house.

• Where to look: Usually near your water meter or where the main line enters your home.

• Fix: Turn the valve counterclockwise until it’s fully open. If it’s a lever-style handle, make sure it’s parallel with the pipe.

🚰 2. Sediment or Mineral Buildup

Over time, mineral deposits from hard water can clog faucet aerators, showerheads, and even your supply pipes.

• Quick test: Unscrew an aerator or showerhead and check for white or green buildup.

• Fix: Soak the part in vinegar overnight to dissolve the minerals. For larger buildup inside pipes, you may need a plumber to flush or replace sections.

🔧 3. A Hidden Leak in Your Plumbing System

Leaks waste water and reduce pressure throughout your home.

• How to test: Turn off all water in your home and watch the water meter. If it keeps spinning, you may have a leak.

• Fix: Small leaks can sometimes be sealed, but underground or in-wall leaks require professional repair. We use specialized equipment to locate and fix leaks with minimal damage.

🏠 4. Pressure Regulator Problems

Most homes have a pressure-reducing valve (PRV) on the main water line to protect pipes from excessive pressure. If it fails, your water pressure can drop suddenly.

• Fix: Replacing a faulty regulator usually restores steady pressure. It’s best to have this done by a licensed plumber.

💦 5. City Supply Issues or Shared Lines

If your neighbors are also noticing low pressure, the issue could be coming from the city’s water supply. Municipal maintenance, fire hydrant use, or high neighborhood demand can temporarily reduce flow.

• Fix: Check with your local water department or give it a few hours. If the issue persists, your main line may need inspection.

⚙️ 6. Corroded or Old Pipes

Homes with galvanized steel pipes (common in older houses) often experience low pressure due to internal corrosion narrowing the pipe diameter.

• Fix: Replacing old lines with PEX or copper piping will not only improve water pressure but also prevent future leaks and rust-colored water.

✅ When to Call a Professional

If you’ve checked the basics and your pressure is still low, it’s time to call in a professional plumber. At Cole’s Plumbing, we:

• Diagnose pressure issues with specialized gauges and inspection tools

• Locate hidden leaks

• Repair or replace faulty regulators, valves, and corroded pipes

• Restore strong, consistent water flow to every fixture in your home

💬 Final Thoughts

Low water pressure isn’t just an inconvenience — it can be a sign of a bigger plumbing problem waiting to happen. By identifying the cause early, you can avoid costly damage and enjoy better performance from all your fixtures.

If your water pressure has dropped and you’re tired of weak showers, give Cole’s Plumbing a call today. We’ll get your water flowing right — quickly, safely, and professionally.

📞 Cole’s Plumbing – Serving Bay St. Louis and the Mississippi Gulf Coast