I just moved into a new apt and noticed that my water pressure in my shower is horrible. My bf lives in the same complex (diff. apt) and has awesome water pressure. I switched out my showerhead when I moved in but took out the flow restricter. I don't think that it is the new showerhead though, bc when I turn the water on, it first goes into the tub until I pull the thing to make it come out of the showerheead. Even then, it is not very powerful. I have thick hair and if I have to live like this for a year...AHH!! It will take me forever to shower!!!!! The water pressure at my sink in the br and kitchen is fine, which confuses me.
2007-07-17 14:22:52 · 7 answers · asked by ~*Amy*~ 2 in Home & Garden ➔ Maintenance & Repairs
First, I would try to get the landlord to get somebody to come look at it.
If they won't do anything; try running the shower without the shower head attached; measure how long it takes to fill a bucket of known size. Try this with all hot, then all cold water (to see if flow rates are similar) This will give you an idea of how fast the water can be delivered to the showerhead. If the flow is OK, the problem is in the showerhead; check to see if it is plugged up with minerals or bits of rust. (Unlikely since yours is new). Make certian the thing you pull up on seals properly (all the water goes to the shower).If the water flow (without the shower head) is really wimpy; the problem is probably the valve. Because you rent, you are going to be limited in what you can do in the way of plumbing work. If you can get to the shut off valves and get the cover off the shower valve assembly, pull out the cartridge unit and see if it looks like there is any blockage, mineral build up, damage etc. there also might be a flow restrictor setting on the valve unit.
I hope this is of use to you.
If all else fails, shower with your boyfriend!
2007-07-17 14:49:12 · answer #1 · answered by Flying Dragon 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
There is no inexpensive solution to your problem. You can try shower heads which claim they increase pressure. But the fact is they dont! There must have been an obstruction within the shower faucet body. This is how it is resolved. First, remove the tub spout, and turn on both hot and cold water. While the water is running, take a hammer and tap the faucet from behind, directly on the mixing chamber. Short, quick, machine-gun taps. Also tapp out along the faucet to each side, where the water enters. The idea is to shake loose any debris and have it flushed out. Dont hammer too hard and cause a leak ;) Next, cap off the tub spout, and remove the shower head. Using an ear-flushing bulb, squirt some white vinegar into the shower arm. Also shoot in some WD-40 prior to the vinegar. The idea here is to get enough solution into the faucet's mixing chamber, and allow it to soak. Remove the cap, and turn on the water. It will flow strongly! Sometimes there is a pellet-shaped piece of "calcium" on the floor of the tub...most likely the culprit.
2016-05-21 00:09:08 · answer #2 · answered by ? 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
The diverter that switches the water from tub faucet to showerhead is probably the culprit. They can get gacked with mineral deposits (lime etc.) and will not allow a normal flow. Time for a plumber, if the landlord will spring for it.
2007-07-17 14:31:39 · answer #3 · answered by kamaole3 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Good answers.
If all else fails. You can get a pump and an expansion tank. The pump will operate off of a low water pressure switch. The expansion tank will keep the pressure in the syem at a good level. They use the system in the country a lot where there is only a well.
2007-07-25 06:01:29 · answer #4 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Check the nozzle...sometimes grit blocks the flow.
Many apartments use low-flow restrictors in the nozzle head...it looks like a thin washer with a small hole in the center. Remove it and see if the water flow is better.
Also, try other types of shower heads to find one with a spray pattern you like...but keep the original one under the sink to reinstall before you move.
2007-07-17 14:49:53 · answer #5 · answered by emeryinhollister 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋
You have a water saver in the shower head. It may be removable by hand. Take the shower head off, there will be a small plastic disc that's in the head, take it out. If it's permanent then drill it out, it's a light weight material. you may be able to carve it out with a knife. Don't tell the landlord this, it will in time cost for the extra water your using.
2007-07-17 23:47:27 · answer #6 · answered by cowboydoc 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
The first answer suggested gunk in the diverter. Your showerhead could also have mineral deposits. Try getting a new one.
2007-07-21 20:26:42 · answer #7 · answered by felines 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋