Meta description: Learn the most effective methods for increasing low shower water pressure, including adjusting shower heads, replacing parts, and more. This comprehensive 5000+ word guide covers causes and solutions.
Introduction
Having low water pressure in your shower can be immensely frustrating. Instead of the strong, invigorating spray you expect, you get a weak dribble of water that makes showering a chore rather than a pleasure.
Fortunately, in most cases, it’s possible to improve low shower pressure yourself using simple fixes. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the common causes of low shower water pressure and the steps you can take to restore pressure and get a satisfying shower again.
We’ll cover adjusting shower heads, replacing worn parts like washers and cartridges, switching out the shower head altogether, getting sediment out of the pipes, adjusting the water pressure at the main, and when to call in a plumber for help.
Follow these tips and with a little detective work, there’s an excellent chance you can troubleshoot and solve shower pressure problems on your own. So let’s dive in and learn how to get your shower’s water pressure back where it belongs!
Check Your Shower Head
The first place to start is right at the shower head itself. In many cases of low shower pressure, there is an easy fix related to the shower head that can quickly get water flowing stronger again.
Clean Clogged Shower Head Holes
Mineral deposits from hard water build up in shower heads over time. This clogs the shower head’s nozzle holes, restricting water flow.
To clean, unscrew the shower head from the arm and remove any silicone caulk around the fitting.
Place the shower head in a bowl with 1 part vinegar to 3 parts water. Let soak 30-60 minutes.
Use an old toothbrush or wire brush to gently scrub the shower head nozzles and clear any blockages.
Rinse well and reattach to the shower arm, using plumber’s tape on the threads.
Be sure to align the head on the arm correctly so the flow isn’t obstructed. Reapply caulk around the fitting if needed.
Cleaning the shower head regularly helps prevent mineral buildup and clogging.
Adjust the Flow Restrictor
Many modern shower heads have an internal flow restrictor that limits water volume. This helps conserve water but can reduce pressure.
If the shower head has a removable flow restrictor:
- Unscrew the shower head and locate the plastic restrictor inside.
- Remove it with pliers and clear out any debris.
- Replace the restrictor fully if water conservation is desired or leave it out for maximum flow.
If there is no removable restrictor, try this:
- Place a small flathead screwdriver into the shower head nozzle and gently pry out the restrictor disk.
- Rinse out any debris and replace the restrictor fully or partially to adjust flow.
Be gentle prying out restrictors to avoid damaging the shower head. Adjust and test pressure until you achieve the desired flow.
Switch Spray Settings
Multi-setting shower heads can have weaker pressure on some settings. Try switching between settings, such as:
- Power spray
- Full body spray
- Massage
- Rainfall
A concentrated spray setting often has the most pressure. Choose the one with the strongest flow.
Also, make sure the setting control moves freely and easily. If stuck between settings, that can reduce pressure. Under the handle, pry out any limescale buildup. Spray with vinegar or CLR and test for smooth setting control.
Adjust the Angle
Try angling the shower head slightly down to direct more water straight down onto you vs. spraying at an angle. This concentrates the water flow for better pressure.
Aim the shower head correctly so spray hits your body, not the walls or outside the tub. Pushing water outside the tub wastes flow.
Raise the Head Height
Raising a wall-mount adjustable shower head can also improve pressure. More height allows more water force via gravity.Slide the collar up the vertical pipe as far as comfortable for your height.
If on a short, fixed arm, consider changing to a longer adjustable arm for maximum height.
Use Shower Arm Tape
Applying special plumber’s tape around shower arm threads can optimize water flow to the shower head.
Unscrew the shower head from the arm. Wrap the threads tightly with multiple layers of Teflon tape. Screw the head back on, positioning correctly. The tape seals any gaps between the threads, directing full water flow to the shower head.
Replace Shower Head
If adjusting your existing shower head doesn’t solve pressure issues, replacing the entire head can make a big difference.
Choose a quality shower head designed for high-pressure output. Look for:
- High flow rate (GPM)
- Self-cleaning nozzles
- Rubber jet nozzles for power
- Metal handle
- Removable flow restrictor
Handheld shower heads offer pressure but install one with adequate hose length. Aim it low for high force.
Installing a new shower head is an easy DIY fix to restore lost pressure and gain great shower performance.
Check for Blockages at the Shower Arm
If the problem persists after adjusting the shower head itself, there could be a blockage in the supply side pipes and fittings that limit water flow. Checking a few key connection points can help identify and clear obstructions.
Disconnect at the Shower Arm
Turn off the shower and main water supply. Disconnect the shower arm from the elbow behind the wall.
Inspect both openings for any debris, mineral buildup, old plumber’s tape, etc. Scrub out any blockages with a wire brush.
Rinse thoroughly before reconnecting everything. Make sure to get a snug, leakproof fit.
Remove Shower Arm Diverter
Many shower arms have an internal diverter that switches flow between the tub spout and shower head. Sediment and limescale can get lodged in the diverter and reduce pressure.
Unscrew the shower arm from the wall and elbow. Extract any diverter assembly inside the arm using needle-nose pliers.
Scrub the diverter clean and rinse out the arm thoroughly before replacing. Make sure the diverter seats properly inside the arm when screwing back onto the elbow.
Replace Shower Arm
If adjusting the current shower arm’s fittings and diverter doesn’t help, just replace the entire arm for a clean water path. Use pipe wrenches to unscrew the old arm.
Wrap plumber’s tape clockwise on the new arm’s threads. Screw it into the elbow snugly, but don’t overtighten.
Aim the new arm so the shower head aligns properly when attached. Make sure any diverter moves freely.
With fresh fittings, the shower arm can provide full, unobstructed water flow to the head.
Check Shutoff Valves
Shutoff valves control water supply to the shower and can cause pressure issues if not fully open or if clogged.
Open Fixture Valves
Check the knob or lever shutoff valves on the tub spout and shower arm. Make sure both are completely open.
Partially closed valves restrict flow. All the way open provides maximum pressure.
If the shower valve is stiff, soak the packing nut with penetrating oil. Tap gently with a wrench to loosen and open fully. Replace if necessary.
Inspect Main Shutoff Valve
Low pressure with both hot and cold water likely indicates an issue with the main water supply valves.
Locate the shutoffs where the home’s main water line branches off to the bathroom fixture supply tubes.
Fully open each hot and cold valve. If very stiff, spray penetrating lubricant on the packing nut to loosen the valve stem and open it.
Shutoff Cartridges
Debris in a shutoff valve cartridge can impede water flow. Removing and cleaning or replacing the cartridge can restore full pressure.
Start by shutting off water supply and relieving pressure. Unscrew the valve retaining nut and pull out the cartridge.
Rinse it under water while operating the stem up and down. If screens are clogged, clean thoroughly. Replace cartridge if it’s worn or damaged.
Water Filter Issues
Whole-house water filters can become clogged and cause low pressure at fixtures.
Check the pressure at sinks. If low throughout, the main filter likely needs replacing. Install a higher-capacity filter that handles home water usage.
For just shower issues, install a small inline filter near the shower valves specifically for that fixture. Replace as needed per manufacturer instructions.
Hire a Plumber
If the main water shutoffs require disassembly or replacement, it’s best to call a professional plumber. They have the expertise to fully diagnose and service faulty main valves and filters.
Flush the Hot Water Heater
Sediment buildup in the hot water heater tank can restrict output flow, causing pressure drops. Draining and flushing the tank clears out debris for stronger flow.
Materials Needed:
- Garden hose
- Adjustable wrench
- Bucket
- Water heater manual
Process:
- Turn off power to the water heater. Turn off cold supply valve.
- Connect garden hose to drain valve and route into a bucket.
- Open the pressure release valve on top.
- Open drain valve and let water flow until clear and free of sediment.
- Close drain and refill tank per manual instructions.
- Turn water supply back on and return heater power.
- Check pressure. Flush again if needed.
Doing this annually keeps hot water flow strong. Install an automated tank flush valve for easier flushes.
Increase House Water Pressure
If no individual fixture fixes resolve low shower pressure, the main house water pressure may need adjustment for proper flow to all outlets.
Work the Pressure Reducer
Homes with very high water pressure have a pressure reducer valve installed on the main line. If set too low, this creates insufficient pressure at fixtures.
Locate the pressure reducer downline from the meter. Turn the adjustment knob slightly clockwise to raise the pressure setting.
Test shower pressure and turn up the reducer incrementally until optimal. Don’t exceed 80 psi maximum system pressure.
Adjust Well Pressure
Homes on well water use a pressure tank and pressure switch to maintain system pressure. But these can fall out of adjustment over time.
If the pressure tank’s pre-charge pressure is too low, or the pressure switch cut-on/cut-off points are off, pressure will drop. Consult your well specialist to inspect and recalibrate the components.
Check for Line Blockages
Even small obstructions in underground water lines can hinder pressure for the entire house. Flushing the lines or hydro-jetting removes any interior buildup or clogs.
Your plumber can assess lines for blockage issues. They may run augers through to clear obstructions or use pressurized water jetting for a deeper clean.
Install a Booster Pump
For chronically low main line pressure, adding an inline booster pump is an effective solution. The pump activates when pressure drops and raises it to the preset level. Choose a pump sized for your home’s needs.
A plumber can properly install and adjust the pump cutoff and turn-on pressure points during operation. Maintain the pump per factory requirements.
Fix Low Water Pressure from Specific Faucets
If pressure is lacking from only the tub faucet or just the shower, there may be specific problems with those individual hot and cold supply lines.
Clear Fixture Supply Tubes
Remove the spout nipple and inspect both hot and cold lines for debris. Run wire through tubes to scrub out any gunk inside.
Rinse thoroughly before replacing nipple. If flow is improved, also replace old supply tubes for clean water lines.
Clean/Replace Cartridges
Many tub/shower faucets use cartridges that control water flow and mixing. Debris-clogged cartridges reduce pressure.
Turn off water and remove handle and trim to access the cartridges. Rinse and scrub sediment from cartridges. Replace if worn, bent or damaged.
Low Pressure from Shower Only
If pressure is low shower-only, the diverter could be failing. The diverter routes flow from the tub spout up to the shower head.
Replace old diverter stems and springs. Be sure the diverter assembly seats properly in the tub spout when reassembling.
Fix Damaged Supply Lines
Kinked, crushed, or corroded supply tubes leading to the tub spout and shower will choke water flow. Inspect carefully and replace damaged sections with new tubing.
Use vinyl or braided stainless lines. Follow a smooth path without bends. Secure with appropriate fittings.
Hire a Plumber
For extensive supply line repairs behind walls or under the house, a professional plumber has the expertise and tools to fully diagnose and fix the source of pressure loss.
Increase Water Flow from Rain Shower Heads
Rainfall or rainfall-mist shower heads create a refreshing, drenching shower but have some inherent pressure limitations. Here are tips to improve a rain shower’s water flow:
Adjust the Angle
Pointing the shower head downward helps gravity boost water flow. Keep it aimed directly at the user vs. at an angle.
Clean Nozzles
Limescale easily clogs rain shower’s many small nozzle holes. Remove nozzle plate and soak in vinegar, then scrub holes clear.
Raise the Head Height
Install the rainfall shower head as high up on the wall as possible for maximum shower pressure from gravity.
Reduce Nozzle Quantity
Choose a rain shower head with fewer nozzle openings (100 or less). Fewer holes allow more concentrated pressure through each.
Select Larger Nozzles
Search for rain shower heads with one large outlet nozzle or larger-sized multiple nozzles for less restricted flow.
Upgrade Shower Valves
Install therapeutic shower valves designed for special low-pressure rain heads. Pressure-balance valves help compensate.
Increase Main Water Pressure
If other showers have good pressure, boost house flow at the main or well pump per above instructions.
While they may never have the force of a standard shower head, these adjustments optimize rain showers’ water pressure capability. Call a plumber for valve or pump upgrades.
Fix Low Pressure in Upstairs Showers
Low pressure is common with showers located on upper floors, due to the extra distance from the main water supply. Try these targeted solutions to boost flow.
Adjust Pressure Reducer
Slowly turn up the home’s main pressure reducer valve until pressure improves at upstairs showers, while not exceeding 80 psi.
Install Recirculation Pump
A hot water recirculation pump pushes water through lines, priming upper level pipes for better pressure when fixtures turn on. Set to a regular cycle.
Insulate Pipes
Adding pipe insulation reduces heat loss and friction, keeping pressure higher over the longer pipe distance to upper showers.
Use Dedicated Lines
Replacing shared supply lines with dedicated 1/2″ or 3/4″ lines for each upstairs fixture can improve pressure. Consult a plumber.
Install Branch Booster Pump
An inline pump on just the upstairs shower branch line boosts pressure for those fixtures as needed without affecting main home pressure.
Fix Low Shower Pressure after Installing a Filter
New whole home or shower-specific water filters can sometimes reduce water pressure. Use these tips to restore normal pressure post-filter.
Size Up Filter
Choose a filter with higher flow and pressure ratings like 10-15 psi or more – double your old filter’s rating. Bigger units handle more volume.
Use Pressure-Boosting Filter
Some specialty filters add pressure to compensate for inherent filter pressure loss. Look for ones rated to “maintain household pressure.”
Install Pre-Filter Booster Pump
Putting a small booster pump before the filter counteracts the pressure drop through the filter itself. It maintains pressure on the output side.
Add Post-Filter Booster
Alternatively, install a booster pump after the filter to increase pressure at that point. Adjust pump’s pressure setting to household lines.
Use Multiple Filters
Breaking filtration into 2 separate units in sequence spreads out the pressure loss instead of 1 big initial drop.
Call a Professional
For whole home filters or media tanks, have a plumber install and integrate the filter with your existing plumbing correctly for maximum pressure retention.
Increase Pressure When Shower Shares a Line
When 2 or more bathrooms share a single water supply line, simultaneous usage can cause pressure drops in both locations.
Stagger Use
A simple fix is to avoid showering/running water in both places at the same time, so each fixture gets the full line pressure independently.
Install Dual-Head Pump
Dual-head booster pumps have 2 output ports to boost pressure along a split line evenly. Set to kick in only when both lines draw water.
Dedicate Supply Lines
Replacing the shared line with two separate 3/4″ lines, one for each bathroom group, allows independent pressure control. Hire a plumber for this.
Adjust Flow Restrictors
If low pressure occurs when different fixtures are on, adjust the flow restrictors in those units to limit volume loss when combined.
Upgrade Main Line
Consult a professional about upgrading the main supply line with a larger-diameter pipe if used to maximum capacity already. 1″ pipes are better than 1/2″ lines.
Restore Water Pressure After a Renovation
Remodeling projects often alter home plumbing in ways that reduce previous water pressure. Take these steps to get back original flow.
Remove Addition Restrictors
Extra flow restrictors added during a kitchen or bath remodel can reduce overall pressure. Remove unneeded units on non-critical fixtures.
Confirm Line Sizing
Using too-small supply tubing when rerouting plumbing makes all fixtures lose pressure. Verify proper 1/2″ minimum pipe sizes were used