07 May. 26
Low Water Pressure in Glen Ellyn Homes: Common Plumbing Problems Causes
Glen Ellyn Homes Common Plumbing Problems Causes
Low water pressure is one of the most frustrating plumbing issues Glen Ellyn homeowners face.
When your shower barely produces more than a trickle, or it takes twice as long to fill the washing machine, your pipes could be the problem. Most cases of low water pressure have identifiable causes fortunately, and many are fixable without replacing your entire plumbing system.
Understanding what causes low water pressure can help you determine whether it’s a simple fix you can handle yourself or a job that requires a professional plumber.
In many Glen Ellyn homes, especially older ones built before the 1980s, the issue we often see is corroded galvanized pipes or failing pressure regulators. At ARCO Plumbing, we’ve diagnosed and repaired low water pressure issues in Glen Ellyn for years. Here’s what we’ve learned about the most common causes, and what you can do about them.
5 Common Causes of Low Water Pressure in Glen Ellyn Homes
1. Corroded or Galvanized Pipes
Main cause:
Most older homes in Glen Ellyn were built with galvanized steel pipes, meaning these pipes corrode from the inside out.
As rust and mineral deposits build up, the interior diameter of the pipe narrows, restricting water flow and reducing water pressure throughout the house.
How to tell if this is your problem:
If your home was built before 1980 and you’ve noticed gradually worsening water pressure over the years, galvanized pipes are a likely cause. You might also notice discolored water (brownish or rust-colored) when you first turn on a faucet.
What it costs to fix:
Replacing galvanized pipes with modern copper or PEX piping is not a small job. Costs vary depending on the size of your home and the extent of the work, but whole-house repiping typically ranges from $4,000 to $10,000 or more. However, this is often the only long-term solution if your pipes are severely corroded.
Why it matters in Glen Ellyn:
Many homes in Glen Ellyn’s older neighborhoods, particularly those built in the 1950s through 1970s, still have original galvanized plumbing. If you’re experiencing whole house water pressure issues and your home falls into this age range, galvanized pipes should be the first thing a plumber checks.
2. Closed or Partially Closed Shut-Off Valves
What it is:
Every home has a main water shut-off valve where the municipal water line enters the house. Individual fixtures also have their own shut-off valves under sinks, behind toilets, and near water heaters. If any of these valves are not fully open, water flow is restricted.
How to tell if this is your problem:
If low water pressure appeared suddenly after plumbing work, a home inspection, or any time someone may have accessed your plumbing, check your shut-off valves. The main valve is often located in the basement, crawl space, or near the water heater.
What it costs to fix:
Free. Simply locate the valve and turn it fully counterclockwise (open). This is a common DIY fix that homeowners can handle without calling a plumber.
When to call a plumber:
If the valve is stuck, corroded, or damaged and won’t turn, a plumber may need to replace it.
3. Clogged Faucet Aerators or Showerheads
What it is:
Faucet aerators and showerheads have small screens that filter out debris and regulate water flow. Over time, mineral deposits from hard water, common in the Glen Ellyn area, can clog these screens, reducing water pressure at that specific fixture.
How to tell if this is your problem:
If low water pressure affects only one sink or shower, the aerator or showerhead is likely clogged. Other faucets in the house will have normal pressure.
What it costs to fix:
Cleaning or replacing an aerator costs almost nothing. Unscrew the aerator from the faucet, rinse it under water, and use a toothbrush or vinegar soak to remove mineral buildup. Replacement aerators cost $3-$10 at any hardware store.
DIY or professional:
This is an easy DIY fix. If the aerator is stuck or damaged, a plumber can replace it during a routine service call.
4. Water Main or Municipal Supply Issues
What it is:
Sometimes low water pressure isn’t caused by your home’s plumbing at all. Municipal water supply issues, water main breaks, or maintenance work in your area can temporarily reduce water pressure for multiple homes.
How to tell if this is your problem:
Ask your neighbors if they’re experiencing low water pressure. If they are, the issue is likely with the municipal water supply, not your plumbing. You can also contact the Village of Glen Ellyn Public Works Department to check for known issues or planned maintenance.
What it costs to fix:
Nothing on your end. Municipal water pressure issues are resolved by the village or water utility. If the problem persists after municipal work is completed, the issue may be with your home’s connection to the main line, which would require a plumber.
When to call a plumber:
If your neighbors have normal pressure but you don’t, the problem may be with your home’s service line (the pipe connecting your house to the main water line). This requires professional diagnosis and repair.
5. Failing Pressure Regulator
What it is:
Some homes in Glen Ellyn have a pressure regulator (also called a pressure-reducing valve) installed where the water line enters the house. This device controls incoming water pressure to prevent damage to your plumbing. If the regulator fails, it can cause either very high or very low water pressure.
How to tell if this is your problem:
If you have a pressure regulator and you’re experiencing sudden, whole-house low water pressure, the regulator may have failed. You can test your water pressure with an inexpensive pressure gauge (available at hardware stores). Normal home water pressure should be between 45-60 PSI, according to the City of Chicago. If it’s significantly lower, the regulator may need adjustment or replacement.
What it costs to fix:
Adjusting a pressure regulator is a quick job and may cost $100-$200 for a service call. Replacing a failed regulator typically costs $300-$500, including parts and labor.
DIY or professional:
Adjusting a regulator can sometimes be done by a homeowner, but diagnosing whether the regulator is the actual problem usually requires a plumber with the right testing equipment.
How to Tell If It’s a Whole-House or Isolated Problem
Before calling a plumber, it helps to know whether low water pressure affects your entire home or just one area. This can save you time and help the plumber diagnose the issue faster.
Test your fixtures:
- Turn on multiple faucets, showers, and outdoor hoses throughout the house
- Check both hot and cold water at each location
- Note which fixtures have low pressure and which don’t
If only one fixture is affected:
The problem is likely a clogged aerator, a blocked supply line to that fixture, or a partially closed shut-off valve under the sink or behind the toilet.
If multiple fixtures on one floor are affected:
The issue may be with a branch line supplying that area of the house.
If the whole house has low pressure:
The problem is likely with the main water line, galvanized pipes, the pressure regulator, or the municipal water supply.
If only hot water has low pressure:
The issue may be with your water heater. Sediment buildup in the tank or a partially closed valve on the water heater can restrict hot water flow.
When to Call a Plumber for Low Water Pressure
Not every case of low water pressure requires a plumber, but some situations do. Call a professional if:
The problem affects your whole house
Whole-house water pressure issues typically indicate a problem with the main water line, galvanized pipes, or the pressure regulator, all of which require professional diagnosis and repair.
You suspect corroded or galvanized pipes
If your home is older and you’ve noticed gradually worsening pressure along with discolored water, you likely need a pipe inspection and possibly repiping.
You’ve tried the simple fixes and nothing worked
If you’ve checked shut-off valves, cleaned aerators, and confirmed the municipal supply is fine, but pressure is still low, a plumber can identify hidden issues like leaks, clogs in the main sewer line, or problems with the pressure regulator.
You see signs of a leak
Low water pressure combined with water stains, damp spots, or higher-than-normal water bills may indicate a hidden leak. Leaks require immediate professional attention to prevent water damage and mold growth.
How ARCO Plumbing Can Help
When you contact ARCO Plumbing about low water pressure in your Glen Ellyn home, here’s what happens:
- Initial diagnosis
We’ll ask a few questions over the phone to get a sense of the problem: Is it whole-house or isolated? When did it start? Have you noticed any other symptoms? This helps us come prepared with the right tools. - On-site inspection
A licensed plumber will test water pressure at multiple points in your home, inspect visible plumbing, check shut-off valves and the pressure regulator, and look for signs of leaks or corrosion. - Clear explanation of the problem
We’ll explain what’s causing the low water pressure. If it’s something you can fix yourself, we’ll tell you. If it requires professional work, we’ll explain why. - Transparent pricing
Before we do any work, we’ll give you an upfront estimate. You’ll know what the repair costs and what’s involved. If the issue is complex (like repiping), we’ll walk you through your options. - Quality repair
If you approve the work, we’ll fix the problem efficiently and make sure your water pressure is restored to normal levels.
ARCO Plumbing has served Glen Ellyn homeowners for years, and we understand the unique plumbing challenges in this area, from aging galvanized pipes to hard water issues.
If you’re dealing with low water pressure and want reliable answers, schedule a plumbing service today. We’ll help you figure out what’s going on and get your water flowing properly again.
Low water pressure doesn’t have to be a permanent frustration. Whether it’s a quick fix or a bigger repair, addressing the issue now prevents bigger problems down the road.