Top 5 Causes of Low Water Pressure and How to Fix Them

Living in Calgary, you might have noticed that low water pressure can be a common issue in some neighborhoods. With Calgary’s hard water, aging infrastructure, and varying water demands, this problem often has localized causes. Below, we’ll dive deeper into the top five reasons for low water pressure in Calgary homes and offer practical solutions to restore optimal flow.

In Calgary, the city’s naturally hard water is a significant contributor to mineral buildup inside pipes. Over time, calcium and magnesium deposits narrow the pipe’s diameter, restricting water flow. Older homes with galvanized steel or copper plumbing are particularly prone to these issues, as rust can also play a role.

How to Fix It:

• DIY Fix: For minor clogs, flush the pipes with a vinegar solution to dissolve some of the mineral deposits. To do this, shut off your water, pour vinegar into the pipe via a fixture, and let it sit before flushing with water.
• Professional Fix: If buildup is extensive, call a plumber to assess the condition of your pipes. Hydro-jetting or pipe replacement may be necessary for severe cases.
• Prevention: Consider installing a water softener in your home to reduce future mineral buildup, a common issue in Calgary’s hard water areas.

Leaking pipes are another frequent issue in Calgary homes, especially in older neighborhoods where plumbing systems are aging. Leaks not only waste water but also reduce pressure, as water escapes before it reaches your taps. Harsh Calgary winters can also cause pipes to crack, leading to undetected leaks.

How to Fix It:

• Detection: Check visible pipes for damp spots or drips. Monitor your water meter when no water is being used—if it’s still moving, you likely have a hidden leak.
• Repair: Call a local Calgary plumber to locate and fix leaks. They’ll use advanced tools like thermal imaging or acoustic detectors to find leaks behind walls or underground.
• Prevention: Winterize your plumbing by insulating pipes to prevent freezing, a leading cause of leaks during Calgary’s cold months.

In many Calgary homes, the problem may be isolated to a single faucet or showerhead. Over time, mineral deposits from Calgary’s hard water accumulate in aerators and showerheads, reducing water flow. Older fixtures may also wear out or become corroded, contributing to the issue.

How to Fix It:

• DIY Cleaning: Remove the affected fixture and soak it in white vinegar for a few hours to dissolve mineral buildup. Scrub gently with a brush to clear any remaining debris.
• Replacement: If cleaning doesn’t restore pressure, consider replacing outdated fixtures with modern, high-efficiency models designed to maintain good water flow even in areas with hard water.
• Upgrade: Opt for water-saving fixtures that meet Calgary’s water efficiency standards to conserve water without sacrificing pressure.

Many Calgary homes, especially newer builds, are equipped with a water pressure regulator to keep pressure at safe levels. Over time, the regulator can wear out or become miscalibrated, leading to low water pressure throughout the home.

How to Fix It:

• Testing: Attach a water pressure gauge to an outdoor faucet to measure your home’s water pressure. The ideal range is between 40 and 60 psi. If the reading is significantly below this, the regulator may need attention.
• Adjustment or Replacement: Adjusting or replacing the regulator is a job best left to a professional plumber in Calgary, as improper adjustments can cause more problems.
• Consideration for Calgary: Regulators are essential here due to varying water pressures in different parts of the city, so ensure yours is functioning optimally.

Calgary’s water supply system is one of the most advanced in Canada, but it’s not immune to challenges. High water demand during summer months, city maintenance projects, or issues with aging infrastructure can lead to temporary drops in water pressure.

How to Fix It:

• Contact the City: Check with Calgary Water Services to see if there are known disruptions or maintenance activities in your area.
• Boost Pressure: If low pressure is a recurring issue in your neighborhood, installing a water pressure booster pump can help improve flow to your home.
• Stay Informed: Sign up for city alerts to stay updated on water system maintenance and potential disruptions.

In the lead-up to the Calgary Stampede—one of the city’s largest and most anticipated events—a major water main burst in a busy area of the city. This incident disrupted water supply for thousands of residents and businesses, causing widespread concern.

• Impact on Water Pressure: The pipe burst led to reduced water pressure city-wide, making everyday activities like showering and dishwashing a challenge.
• Emergency Repairs: The city worked around the clock to fix the issue, but the disruption highlighted how fragile certain parts of Calgary’s aging water infrastructure can be.
• Business Interruptions: Restaurants, hotels, and other businesses preparing for Stampede crowds faced operational challenges, relying on contingency plans to meet health and safety standards.

Several factors unique to Calgary contribute to low water pressure, including:

• Hard Water: High mineral content leads to buildup in pipes and fixtures.
• Weather Extremes: Freeze-thaw cycles can damage pipes, leading to leaks.
• Urban Growth: Increased demand in developing neighborhoods sometimes stresses local water systems.

While some fixes are simple enough to handle on your own, persistent low water pressure often requires expert attention. If you’ve tried these solutions and still experience poor water flow, reach out to a trusted Calgary plumbing company.

At Efficient Plumbing, we specialize in diagnosing and resolving water pressure issues for Calgary homeowners. From detecting leaks to upgrading your system, we’re here to help. Contact us today for a consultation!