Quick answer
- If one fixture is low: clean the aerator / showerhead
- If the whole house is low: check shutoff valves, pressure regulator, and look for leaks
DIY checks
- 1 Clean aerators / showerheads
- 2 Check shutoff valves
- 3 Test with a pressure gauge
- 4 Look for leaks
Common causes
- Aerator buildup
- Partially closed main valve
- Failing pressure regulator
- Pipe corrosion (older homes)
When to call a plumber
- Pressure dropped suddenly across the home
- Multiple fixtures have low flow after DIY checks
- Pipes bang, whistle, or your bill spikes
Pro Tip
Check aerators first - most single-faucet pressure issues are due to buildup.