Water Pressure Problems? Here’s What Might Be Causing It

Nothing is more frustrating than stepping into the shower only to be met with a weak trickle—or worse, experiencing pipes that rattle from high water pressure. Whether you’re dealing with low pressure in the bathroom or inconsistent flow throughout your home, water pressure issues are a common concern for homeowners in Wisconsin.

At Brisc Plumbing, we’ve helped homeowners in Watertown, Beaver Dam, and Oconomowoc identify and fix pressure problems quickly and affordably. In this post, we’ll break down the most common causes and what you can do about them.

What’s Considered “Normal” Water Pressure?

Residential water pressure is typically measured in pounds per square inch (PSI). The ideal range is between 40–60 PSI. Anything significantly lower or higher can cause problems with your plumbing system and affect your water appliances.

Common Causes of Low Water Pressure

1. Clogged Pipes or Fixtures

Over time, mineral buildup, sediment, or corrosion can reduce the internal diameter of pipes or clog faucet aerators and showerheads.

What you might notice:

• Weak flow in specific fixtures

• Uneven pressure in certain rooms

Solution:
Try cleaning aerators or replacing affected fixtures. If the issue persists, your pipes may need descaling or partial replacement.

2. Old or Corroded Pipes

If you live in an older home, galvanized steel or iron pipes may be deteriorating internally, restricting water flow.

What you might notice:

• Gradual loss of pressure throughout the entire house

• Rusty or discolored water

Solution:
Call a professional plumber to assess and potentially replace outdated plumbing.

3. Issues with the Pressure Regulator

Most homes have a pressure-reducing valve (PRV) near the main shut-off. If this device fails, you may experience low or fluctuating pressure.

What you might notice:

• Water pressure that changes suddenly

• Whistling or banging sounds in pipes

Solution:
A faulty pressure regulator often needs to be adjusted or replaced by a licensed plumber.

4. Water Leaks in Your System

Leaks reduce the volume of water available in your pipes, which can cause drops in pressure.

What you might notice:

• Unexplained water pooling

• A spike in your water bill

• Audible hissing near fixtures or pipes

Solution:
Even small leaks can waste hundreds of gallons. Let a pro locate and repair leaks before they cause bigger problems.

5. Municipal Supply Issues

Sometimes, the problem lies outside your property. City water main repairs, high demand, or changes in municipal water pressure can affect your home.

What you might notice:

• Low pressure in the entire neighborhood

• Sudden changes after city work in your area

Solution:
Contact your local water utility to report the issue or confirm if maintenance is underway.

What About High Water Pressure?

While low pressure is a nuisance, high pressure can be even more damaging—putting stress on appliances, valves, and pipes.

Signs of high pressure:

• Banging or knocking pipes

• Leaking fixtures

• Water heater issues

If you suspect pressure that’s too high, it’s important to have your system tested and regulated. A pressure-reducing valve may need adjustment or replacement.

When to Call Brisc Plumbing

If you’re unsure what’s causing your water pressure problems, don’t guess—get a professional opinion. At Brisc Plumbing, we offer:

• Pressure testing and diagnosis

• Regulator adjustments

• Pipe cleaning and replacement

• Leak detection services

We serve homeowners throughout Watertown, Beaver Dam, Oconomowoc, and nearby areas with prompt, honest service.

Schedule Your Water Pressure Inspection Today

Don’t let poor water pressure disrupt your day. Whether it’s a quick fix or a more involved repair, our licensed plumbers are here to help.

📞 Call Brisc Plumbing today or schedule your service online to get your water pressure back on track.