Have you ever noticed that your shower has a strong, steady stream, but your kitchen faucet feels like a trickle? Or maybe your bathroom sink gushes while your washing machine takes forever to fill? Uneven water pressure between fixtures is a common household plumbing issue but it’s also one that can signal deeper problems in your system.
At Hansen Family Plumbing & Air, we help homeowners across Greater Phoenix get to the bottom of water pressure issues so every fixture delivers the performance you expect. Let’s break down the most common causes and solutions for uneven water pressure in your home.
Common Causes of Uneven Water Pressure
1. Clogged or Corroded Pipes
Over time, mineral buildup (especially from our hard water in Arizona) or corrosion inside pipes can restrict water flow to specific fixtures. This often happens in older homes with galvanized steel plumbing.
Solution: Professional pipe cleaning, hydrojetting for certain drain lines, or replacing old plumbing may be necessary.
2. Partially Closed or Faulty Shut-Off Valves
Every fixture has its own shut-off valve, usually located beneath sinks or behind appliances. If a valve is partially closed or damaged, it can restrict water flow to that fixture only.
Solution: Open the valve fully. If it’s stuck, corroded, or leaking, call a plumber to replace it.
3. Pressure Regulating Valve (PRV) Issues
A PRV controls the overall water pressure entering your home. If it’s failing or improperly set, some fixtures may get too much pressure while others get too little.
Solution: Have a licensed plumber test and, if needed, adjust or replace your PRV.
4. Fixture-Specific Problems
Sometimes the issue is with the fixture itself. For example, a faucet aerator may be clogged, or a showerhead may be filled with limescale.
Solution: Clean or replace the affected fixture.
5. Leaks in the Plumbing System
Even small leaks can divert water flow, leading to uneven pressure in certain areas of your home.
Solution: Schedule a professional leak detection service to locate and repair hidden leaks.
6. Hot Water vs. Cold Water Issues
If the pressure difference only occurs when using hot water, your water heater or its lines may be partially blocked or failing.
Solution: Have a plumber flush the water heater or inspect for sediment buildup.
When to Call a Professional
While some causes, like cleaning an aerator, are simple DIY fixes, others require a licensed plumber’s expertise. Call Hansen Family Plumbing & Air if:
- The issue affects multiple fixtures or rooms.
- You notice sudden changes in water pressure.
- There’s a noticeable drop in hot water pressure only.
- Your PRV or main shut-off valve needs adjustment.
Prompt attention can prevent costly repairs and ensure your home’s plumbing system runs smoothly.
How Hansen Family Plumbing & Air Can Help
As a family-owned, veteran-owned, 5-star rated company serving the Greater Phoenix area, we specialize in diagnosing and fixing all residential plumbing issues. Our skilled technicians have the tools and experience to:
- Inspect and test your home’s water pressure.
- Pinpoint the exact cause of uneven flow.
- Repair or replace faulty valves, fixtures, or plumbing lines.
- Ensure your home meets safe and optimal standards.
FAQs About Uneven Water Pressure
Q: Can high water pressure damage my home?
A: Yes, excessive pressure can wear out appliances, cause leaks, and stress your plumbing system. A PRV helps regulate this.
Q: How often should my water pressure be checked?
A: We recommend testing your water pressure annually or any time you notice changes in flow.
Q: Will installing a water softener help with water pressure?
A: While it won’t directly increase water flow, a softener can reduce mineral buildup that restricts water flow over time.
Hansen Family – Plumbing Solutions for Every Home
Uneven water pressure can be more than just an annoyance, it can be a sign of underlying plumbing problems. Whether the fix is as simple as cleaning a fixture or as involved as replacing a PRV, Hansen Family Plumbing & Air is here to help.
