Low water pressure from the main line
When every faucet and shower in the house is weak at the same time, the problem is usually not one fixture. It is often the line that feeds the whole house.
In short
Diagnosing and fixing whole-house low pressure caused by a leaking, crushed or corroded service line.
Common causes
- A leak on the service line letting pressure escape underground
- Old galvanized pipe narrowed by rust inside
- A section crushed by roots or vehicles
- A partly closed valve at the meter or house
- A failed pressure regulator, if your home has one
- Utility-side issues, which affect neighbors too
Quick checks
- Ask a neighbor. If their pressure is low too, call the utility.
- Check the valves at the house and meter are fully open.
- Do the meter test. A moving dial with everything off points to a leak.
- Look at the pipe. Galvanized steel at the house entry is a strong hint.
Fixes
A leak is repaired at the break. A narrowed galvanized line is replaced, since no repair restores its inside diameter. A crushed section is cut out and replaced.
Common questions
Can low pressure be fixed without replacing the line?
If it is a leak or a crushed spot, yes. If the line is narrowed by rust, replacement is the fix.
Repairs by city
Water coming up between the meter and the house?
Call to talk with an independent water line repair provider serving your part of Alabama. Ask about price and timing, then decide.