Low Water Pressure in Your Metro Detroit Home? Here's Why.

Low water pressure is frustrating, but it's rarely mysterious. In our experience serving Metro Detroit homes since 2011, there are five causes that account for the vast majority of low-pressure complaints.

Cause 1: Corroded galvanized pipes. Homes built before 1970 often have original galvanized steel supply lines. Galvanized corrodes from the inside out, and the corrosion buildup restricts flow over time. If your home has galvanized and you're experiencing low pressure throughout the house, the pipes are the problem. The fix is repiping.

Cause 2: Failing pressure regulator. Most homes have a pressure reducing valve (PRV) on the main supply line. PRVs typically last 10 to 15 years. When they fail, they can cause pressure to drop throughout the house. A PRV replacement is a straightforward repair.

Cause 3: Partially closed shutoff valve. If the pressure drop was sudden, check the main shutoff valve and the meter valve. A valve that's partially closed — even by a quarter turn — can significantly reduce pressure.

Cause 4: Leak in the supply line. A significant leak somewhere in the system will reduce pressure at the fixtures. If your pressure dropped suddenly and you can't find a visible leak, call us. We pressure-test the system to locate hidden leaks.

Cause 5: Municipal supply issue. Occasionally, the problem is on the city's side. Check with your neighbors — if they're experiencing the same issue, it's a supply problem, not a house problem. Call your water utility.

If you're dealing with low water pressure in Metro Detroit, call Plumb-O-Matic at 313-427-4780. We diagnose and fix pressure problems across all 7 locations.