No Hot Water Pressure In Your Shower? Here’s Why

Have you turned on your shower to discover there is no hot water pressure? We are here to help with this guide to why your shower may have low water pressure!

Have you ever gone to have a steaming hot shower after a long day only to find that there is no hot water supply?

Low water pressure can be highly problematic, especially when hurrying to shower.

Low pressure can be due to several factors, like a faulty or ageing mixing valve. But, it might also be a problem with your main pipeline or hot water system experiencing some issues.

You can fix some issues at home without having to call professionals. However, others may require skilled plumbers to resolve. This guide will explain the causes of low hot water pressure in your shower and sink faucet.

So, keep reading!

Causes Behind Low Hot Water Pressure In Your Shower

Here, we’ve detailed the causes and solutions for each issue you might face.

1. Malfunctioning Mixing Valve

Some washrooms have a single faucet for hot and cold water. A mixing valve is placed inside the pipe, controlling the hot and cold water that reaches the showerhead. If this valve malfunctions, it can disrupt the flow of water.

If your mixing valve isn’t working correctly, you might notice changes in water pressure. It’s usually hard to access, but a plumber can handle it for you.

2. Partially Closed Valve

There are many valves throughout the house’s pipe system. If any of these are partially closed, the water pressure may go down. This can happen with the main shut-off, water metre, or inline valves. Get a plumber to check them all and fix any issues that may have occurred.

3. Old Showerheads

An old low-flow showerhead is one of the most common reasons for low water pressure. Older models can significantly reduce the water pressure, but an easy solution exists. You can change an old showerhead to a new one to solve the problem.

You can do this at home without needing professional help. However, if the shower pipe behind the showerhead needs to be changed, you will need a licensed plumber.

4. Water Pressure Regulator

While you may be doubting the hot water system tank, the problem may be a faulty water pressure regulator. Most houses have them to regulate the water pressure and keep it within the limit. This is located on the main water supply line before entering the house.

The water pressure regulator’s job is to keep a safe water pressure range. If you have a broken pressure regulator or it malfunctions, the pressure will fluctuate, and you must call professionals to fix it.

5. Blocked Showerheads

Mineral deposits may have accumulated inside if you have used a showerhead for a long time. This can lead to a clogged showerhead that disrupts the flow. To remove this, you can use vinegar. Take a bag or a bowl and fill it with vinegar. Then, remove the showerhead and place it in this container overnight.

The following day, you can use a brush or a tool to remove sediments from the showerheads’ holes. Once all the spots are open, you can attach the showerhead and check the flow.

6. Leaking Pipes

Metal pipes that have been used for a long time can corrode or develop leaks, causing low pressure in the shower.

Look around the hot water pipes to see if the water is dripping and forming puddles. Once you have found the issue, you can ask a plumber to take a look and fix it.

7. Problems With The Hot Water Heater

Last but not least, the water heater needs to be checked. There can be faults with the system or hot water tank, leading to low pressure. You may also have blocked pipes in your hot water unit that could prevent the hot water flow.

Get the heater serviced if you notice that only the water flow is slow or if there are any other hot water system problems.

Fixing Your Water Pressure Issues

Having no hot water is an emergency plumbing situation and should be treated as such. To understand the problem better, inspect other sink faucets in the same bathroom and check the water pressure. If they are running fine, there must be an issue with the heater or shower pipeline.

Take a look at taps in other bathrooms and sinks too. You might find the issue lies with the main water line going into the bathroom with the shower.

Unsure how to fix it yourself? Getting a plumber’s help will prevent any further issues. Chat with our team at WP Plumbing right here in Melbourne to discuss your plumbing needs. We offer a vast range of services to quickly tackle any water pressure issues you’re facing.

It is advisable not to overlook low water pressure, as unresolved issues can result in additional plumbing problems.

Take care!