Why Did I Have a Sudden Drop in Water Pressure?

Sudden drops in water pressure can be caused by several issues. While most require some sort of intervention, not all are serious. In this guide, we break down five common causes of water pressure drops, including:

Try not to worry if your faucets aren't flowing like they usually do or if your shower's water pressure seems low. With a bit of troubleshooting and help from a trusted plumber, you can quickly restore optimal pressure.

Pipe leaks or bursts are common causes of a sudden drop in water pressure. Severe leaks and bursts tend to leave telltale signs, including:

• Wet spots on walls or ceilings
• Hissing sounds
• Mold growth
• Unusually high water bills

However, even minor leaks can reduce water pressure, especially in a main line. If you suspect a leak or burst, shut off your water supply and contact a plumber to inspect the situation immediately.

Most homes in Arizona have hard water, meaning it's rich in minerals. While the calcium and magnesium levels found in local water can be good for your health, they spell trouble for your plumbing. Mineral and sediment buildup from hard water is a common yet often overlooked cause of many pressure issues.

As sediment builds up in your pipes, water can't flow freely. Older and galvanized pipes tend to have a higher level of sediment buildup. That same buildup can reduce hot water pressure by accumulating in your water heater.

To combat this, invest in regular pipe and water heater flushing. Alternatively, you can invest in a whole-home water softener. These appliances use ion exchange to trap and remove calcium and magnesium from your water.

Pressure regulators are valves that ensure consistent water pressure throughout a system. They're an essential part of plumbing because they prevent damage due to high pressure. However, if they fail, they can also cause a sudden drop in water pressure.

If you notice unusually high or low water pressure, look for signs of regulator failure, including:

• Uneven pressure between various fixtures
• Noisy pipes
• Visible damage at the valve

Pressure regulators usually only last between 10 and 15 years before they need replacement, so if you know yours is older, it's likely the culprit for your pressure issues. Have a licensed plumber inspect or replace it as needed to restore your water pressure.

If everyone on your street or in your neighborhood has the same sudden water pressure issue, it may not be related to your plumbing at all. Sometimes, unexpected issues or city-wide maintenance and repairs can lead to temporary drops in water pressure. These causes of water pressure drops don't require you to take any action at all.

If the problem persists longer than a few hours, check in with your municipal water utility provider. They can usually provide an estimated restoration time. Once your water turns back on, flush your taps to confirm they're in good working order.

Localized pressure loss may not require whole-home plumbing work. Over time, fixtures collect sediment that reduces flow. This is particularly common if you have hard water or lack a filtration system, and is most likely to affect the aerators in faucets and showerheads.

The simplest fix is to remove and clean aerators by soaking them in a vinegar solution. This breaks down mineral deposits and lets you scrub them clean. However, if this still doesn't work, you may have corrosion or internal clogs that require a replacement instead.