Why Does My Water Pressure Keep Dropping? Common Causes in Southampton Homes
Low water pressure is a frustrating problem for many homeowners across Southampton, especially in older properties or homes with outdated plumbing. If you’ve noticed taps trickling, showers weakening or your boiler struggling to stay on, you’re not alone — and the issue is nearly always fixable.
Here’s a clear breakdown of the most common causes of dropping water pressure in Southampton homes and what you can do about them.
1. Leaks in Your Pipework
Even a small, hidden leak can reduce the pressure in your whole system.
Common leak locations in Southampton properties include:
- Under floors in older terrace houses
- Behind kitchen units
- Loft spaces with older copper pipework
- Outside pipes damaged by weather
If you suspect a leak, it’s important to get it checked quickly — pressure issues can escalate into structural damage.
2. Limescale Buildup (Very Common in Southampton)
Southampton has hard water, which means limescale can build up inside:
- Taps and shower mixers
- Boiler heat exchangers
- Hot water pipes
- Showerheads
Over time, this restricts water flow and causes pressure to drop.
A local plumber can descale your system or recommend long-term solutions like water softeners.
3. A Failing or Blocked Mains Stop Tap
Your internal or external stop tap controls the flow of water into your home. If it’s:
- Partially closed
- Stiff and not fully turning
- Blocked with debris
… your pressure will dip noticeably.
A plumber can test the stop tap, free it up, or replace it if needed.
4. Faulty Combination Boiler
In Southampton homes with combi boilers, low water pressure is often boiler-related.
Common causes include:
- A worn pressure relief valve
- Corrosion inside the boiler
- A failing expansion vessel
- Air trapped inside the system
If the boiler pressure keeps dropping to zero, a professional repair is usually required.
5. Partially Blocked or Old Pipework
Many Southampton houses — especially those built pre-1970 — still have old pipework.
Over time, pipes can:
- Corrode internally
- Narrow due to mineral deposits
- Become partially blocked
This leads to slow, inconsistent pressure across the property.
6. High Usage in Your Local Area
Sometimes pressure drops aren’t caused by your plumbing at all.
Southampton water pressure can dip:
- At peak times (mornings, evenings)
- During roadworks or mains upgrades
- If there’s a burst water main nearby
A plumber can confirm whether the problem is internal or external.
When Should You Call a Southampton Plumber?
You should get professional help if:
- Pressure drops suddenly
- Your boiler keeps losing pressure
- You suspect a leak
- Only some rooms or appliances have weak pressure
- The problem returns after DIY fixes
A plumber will diagnose the exact cause and restore your system safely.