6 Tips to Increase Water Pressure in the Shower
There’s nothing more disappointing than stepping into the shower, only to be met with a weak trickle of water. Low water pressure can turn a refreshing shower into a frustrating experience, and it’s a common issue in many households.
Fortunately, there are several simple and effective ways to boost the shower pressure and get that satisfying water flow back. Whether the problem lies with your showerhead, plumbing or overall water system, there’s likely a fix that doesn’t require a full bathroom renovation.
In this blog, we’ll walk you through six practical tips to increase water pressure in your shower. From easy DIY solutions to knowing when it’s time to call in a professional, you’ll be armed with everything you need to enjoy a better shower experience every day.
1. Clean or Replace the Showerhead
Over time, your showerhead can become clogged with mineral deposits, especially if you have hard water. This buildup blocks water flow and reduces pressure. Here’s how to fix it:
- Give it a good soak: Remove the showerhead and soak it in a bowl of vinegar for a few hours. This helps dissolve mineral buildup inside the nozzle holes.
- Scrub it clean: Use an old toothbrush to gently scrub the spray holes and remove any remaining gunk.
- Try a needle or pin: For stubborn blockages, gently poke through each spray hole to clear out debris.
- Still not working? Replace it: If cleaning doesn’t improve the pressure, consider upgrading to a new high-pressure showerhead. These are designed to improve flow without using more water.
A clean or upgraded showerhead can make a noticeable difference – and it’s one of the quickest fixes for poor shower pressure.
2. Check for a Flow Restrictor
Many modern showerheads come with a built-in flow restrictor to help save water and energy. While that’s great for the environment, it can sometimes leave you with less-than-satisfying water pressure. If your shower feels more like a drizzle than a downpour, the flow restrictor might be the culprit.
You can usually remove the restrictor yourself with a few basic tools. First, unscrew the showerhead and look for a small plastic disc inside – this is the flow restrictor. Using a small screwdriver or tweezers, gently pop it out. Be careful not to damage the showerhead while doing this.
Once it’s removed, reattach the showerhead and test the pressure. You should notice an immediate improvement. If you’re concerned about water usage, you can opt for a high-efficiency showerhead that boosts pressure without wasting water. It’s a simple fix that could make a big difference in your daily routine.
3. Inspect for Leaks in Pipes or Fixtures
Hidden leaks in your plumbing can quietly reduce water pressure without you even realising it. Water escaping before it reaches your shower means there’s less pressure at the outlet.
Here’s what to look for:
- Check for visible leaks: Look around taps, shower fittings, and pipe joints for dripping water or damp patches.
- Listen for sounds: Hissing or dripping noises in the walls or floor can be signs of a hidden leak.
- Monitor your water bill: A sudden spike could point to a leak somewhere in your plumbing system.
- Check under the house: If you have a crawl space or basement, inspect the pipes below for any moisture or puddles.
- Call a plumber if unsure: A professional can conduct a pressure test or use leak detection equipment to find the source.
Fixing leaks not only improves pressure – it helps you save water and avoid costly damage.
4. Ensure the Main Water Valve is Fully Open
Sometimes, the reason behind low shower pressure is as simple as a partially closed main water valve. This valve controls the water supply to your entire home, so if it’s not fully open, every tap – including your shower – can suffer from weak pressure.
The main water valve is usually located where the water line enters your house – often near the front wall, in a laundry area, or outside near a meter box. It typically looks like a round wheel or a lever. If it’s a wheel, turn it counterclockwise until it stops. If it’s a lever, make sure it’s in line with the pipe, not at an angle.
It’s easy to bump or partially close the valve during maintenance or renovations without realising. Giving it a quick check and turning it fully open can instantly restore proper water flow to your shower – no tools or major work required.
5. Install a Pressure-Boosting Showerhead
Sometimes, the quickest fix for low shower pressure is simply swapping out your old showerhead. Pressure-boosting models are designed to deliver a stronger flow, even when water pressure is low.
Here’s why they’re worth considering:
- Designed for low-pressure systems: These showerheads use smart engineering to increase water velocity without using more water.
- Easy DIY installation: Most models screw on just like a standard showerhead – no plumber needed.
- Water-efficient options available: You can boost pressure and still save water with efficient designs that meet Australian standards.
- Stylish and functional: They come in a range of styles, from handheld to rain showerheads, so you don’t have to sacrifice aesthetics for performance.
- Instant results: You’ll often notice the difference as soon as you turn the tap on.
Upgrading your showerhead is a small change that can make a big impact on your daily routine.
Call a Professional for Help
If you’ve tried all the quick fixes and your shower pressure is still underwhelming, it might be time to call in a professional plumber. Sometimes the issue runs deeper – literally.
Old, corroded or narrow pipes can seriously restrict water flow, especially in older homes. Over time, mineral buildup inside pipes can reduce the diameter and slow down your water pressure without you even noticing.
A licensed plumber can assess your plumbing system and pinpoint the exact cause of your low pressure. They might recommend pipe replacement, upgrading to larger pipes, or even installing a pressure booster system.
While it’s a bigger investment than replacing a showerhead, it can make a huge difference – not just in the shower, but throughout your whole home.
So, if nothing else has worked, don’t hesitate to get expert help. A professional solution could give you the strong, consistent pressure you’ve been missing.
Go With the Flow
Low water pressure in the shower can be a daily annoyance, but the good news is that there are several easy ways to fix it. From cleaning out mineral buildup and checking your main water valve, to upgrading your showerhead or calling in a professional, you’ve got plenty of options to explore.
Many of these fixes are quick and affordable, and you might be surprised by how much of a difference they make. If you’re still struggling after trying the DIY solutions, don’t hesitate to get expert help – especially if the problem lies within your plumbing system.
With the right approach, you can enjoy a steady, satisfying stream of water every time you step into the shower. So, why put up with a weak trickle when better pressure could be just one simple fix away? Give these tips a try and enjoy your best shower yet.
Please note: This information is provided for advice purposes only. Regulations differ from state to state, so please consult your local authorities or an industry professional before proceeding with any work. See Cyber Plumbers’ Terms & Conditions here.
FAQs About Shower Water Pressure
Do you have any questions about increasing shower water pressure? Keep reading for answers to some of the most commonly asked questions.
A sudden drop in water pressure is often caused by a clogged showerhead, a partially closed main water valve, or a leak somewhere in the plumbing. It could also be due to work being done on your local water supply. Start by checking your showerhead for buildup and ensure your water valve is fully open. If the problem persists, it might be time to call a plumber.
Yes, in many cases. You can clean or replace your showerhead, remove a flow restrictor, or check for any visible leaks. These are all easy fixes you can do with basic tools. If those don’t work, it’s best to have a professional take a look at your plumbing system.
They sure do. Pressure-boosting showerheads are specially designed to improve water flow – even if your home’s water pressure is on the lower side. They’re an affordable and effective upgrade.
