Plumbing · Common problems · Updated November 2026
Low Water Pressure in the House: Causes and Fixes
Start by working out whether low pressure affects one fixture, hot water only, or the whole house. Each points to a different cause.
Narrow it down
| Where pressure is low | Likely cause |
|---|---|
| One faucet or shower | Clogged aerator or shower head, or a faulty cartridge |
| Hot water only | Water heater shut-off partly closed or sediment in the heater |
| Whole house, suddenly | Utility work, a partly closed main valve, or a leak |
| Whole house, gradually over years | Corroded galvanized pipes or a failing pressure regulator |
What you can safely check
- Unscrew and rinse faucet aerators and shower heads.
- Make sure the main shut-off valve and the valve at the water heater are fully open.
- Ask neighbors or your water utility whether there is work or an outage nearby.
- Check your water meter: with all water off, if the meter still moves, you may have a leak.
When to call a pro
Call a plumber if the whole house is affected, the meter shows a leak, or you have older galvanized pipes. A plumber can test pressure, check the regulator and look for leaks. A main water line leak repair runs $600–$4,500, and a whole-house repipe averages about $7,500 (plumbing cost guide).
Cost figures are national ranges from the sources listed in our plumbing cost guide, not a quote from FixFinch or any contractor. This article is general information to help you decide on next steps. It is not an inspection or professional advice; a qualified pro who sees the problem in person can tell you what is actually going on. Calls connect you with an independent service provider in our network. FixFinch is not a contractor and does not perform the work.