Why is my water pressure low?
Common causes of low water pressure are incorrectly adjusted valves, an undetected water leak, or use of water during peak demand times. If you are experiencing low water pressure and you have checked your meter and valves, it is recommended that you contact a licensed plumber to identify the specific cause.
What are common sources of water leaks?
Toilets, faucets, and sprinklers are all common sources of undetected water leaks in and around your home. However, it’s easy to check for these leaks.
To detect a leak, you can monitor your meter, use dye tablets to test your toilets, and check your sprinkler system for leaks. View the videos above for additional tips and instructions.
How does a leak adjustment work?
If water usage goes back to within the Low Volume or Base rate allocations after a customer has detected and repaired a leak, IRWD will re-bill the usage in the penalty tiers (Inefficient and Wasteful) at the conservation base rate. You are still responsible for paying for the water, but the usage over allocation is rebilled for you at the conservation rate.
For questions, contact Customer Service at 949-453-5300 or CustomerService@IRWD.com.
How do I check my house valve?
A house valve is part of the private plumbing in your home and typically controls the entire water supply to your house. It is usually located at the hose bib.
Adjust the house valve counter clockwise to ensure the valve is fully open. When the valve is in the “on” position, it will be parallel with the hose bib. If the house valve is in the “off” position (pointing away from the hose bib), water flow to your home will be restricted.
How do I check my customer valve?
Your customer valve is located in your meter box on the side closest to your home and controls water access to your property.
This valve looks like a handle* and should turn easily by hand. Make sure the customer valve is fully open by turning the handle counterclockwise. The handle is parallel with the meter when it is in the “on” position.
*Customers in Lake Forest may have a different type of meter valve. Contact Customer Service at 949-453-5300 or CustomerService@IRWD.com for assistance.
What if I think my pressure regulator needs adjusting?
Sometimes pressure regulators need to be adjusted or serviced to restore normal water pressure to your home. Pressure regulators should be adjusted carefully, and it is recommended that a qualified plumber make adjustments or repairs to your regulator.
Incorrectly adjusting the regulator can result in water pressure that is too high or too low. Water pressure that is too high can cause some household appliances to malfunction.
How do mineral deposits affect water pressure?
If you are experiencing low pressure from one of the faucets in your home, it may be due to mineral deposits. Mineral deposits from hard water can clog the aerators on faucets and shower heads. You can restore the water pressure by cleaning the aerators.
How does water softener affect water pressure?
Customers may notice a decrease in the water pressure after having their water softener serviced. Please check to make sure the service person fully reopened the valve when the service or repairs were completed.
