Water Pressure Problems in Gatineau: Diagnosis and Solutions
Water pressure affects every aspect of your plumbing experience. Too little pressure and showers are unsatisfying, washing machines fill slowly, and irrigation systems underperform. Too much pressure stresses pipes, causes leaks, and shortens appliance life. When your water pressure isn't right, Plombier Gatineau provides professional diagnosis and solutions throughout Gatineau and the Outaouais region.
Signs of Water Pressure Problems
Low Pressure Symptoms
You may have low water pressure if showers lack force, faucets produce weak flow, washing machines and dishwashers take forever to fill, multiple fixtures can't run simultaneously, and irrigation systems don't reach properly.
High Pressure Symptoms
High pressure manifests as banging pipes (water hammer), fixtures that spray or splash excessively, running toilets, frequent leaks at connections, and shortened appliance life.
Causes of Low Water Pressure
Municipal Supply Issues
Sometimes low pressure originates with the water utility—during high-demand periods, main breaks, or hydrant use. If neighbors have the same problem, the issue is likely municipal.
Partially Closed Valve
The main shutoff valve or meter valve may not be fully open. This is a simple fix if it's the cause.
Pipe Restrictions
Older galvanized steel pipes corrode internally, gradually restricting flow. Mineral deposits in any pipe material can have similar effects. Pipes may look fine outside while being significantly restricted inside.
Undersized Pipes
Some older homes have undersized water supply pipes that simply can't deliver adequate flow, especially when multiple fixtures operate simultaneously.
Failing Pressure Regulator
If your home has a pressure reducing valve (PRV) and it fails in a partially closed position, pressure drops throughout the house.
Clogged Aerators
If only one fixture has low pressure, a clogged aerator or showerhead is likely the cause—an easy fix.
Water Treatment Equipment
Clogged filters or malfunctioning softeners can restrict flow.
Causes of High Water Pressure
Municipal Supply
Water utilities often supply higher pressure than homes need, especially in areas with elevation changes. Pressure above 80 PSI is considered too high for residential systems.
Failed Pressure Regulator
A PRV that fails open allows full municipal pressure into your home.
Thermal Expansion
In closed systems with check valves, heating water creates expansion with nowhere to go, spiking pressure. A thermal expansion tank addresses this.
Solutions
Pressure Reducing Valve
A PRV installed on your main water line reduces municipal pressure to a safe level. This protects your entire plumbing system and should last many years.
Pressure Booster
If municipal pressure is inadequate (common in elevated areas or at the end of supply lines), a booster pump system can increase pressure throughout your home.
Pipe Replacement
For corroded or undersized pipes, replacement with modern materials like PEX or copper eliminates restrictions and provides proper flow.
Equipment Maintenance
Cleaning or replacing water treatment filters, maintaining softeners, and clearing aerators restores flow restricted by these components.
Measuring Pressure
We use professional gauges to measure your water pressure accurately. Normal residential pressure should be 40-60 PSI. Below 40 PSI is too low for comfortable use; above 80 PSI risks damage. We measure static pressure, dynamic pressure (with fixtures running), and check for pressure fluctuation.
Areas Served
We diagnose and solve water pressure problems throughout Gatineau, Hull, Aylmer, Chelsea, and surrounding areas.
Get the Right Pressure
Don't live with frustrating water pressure. Call Plombier Gatineau at (819) 317-0262 for professional pressure diagnosis and solutions that deliver comfortable, safe water pressure throughout your home.