There is nothing worse than stepping into the shower only to be greeted by a weak trickle of water, rather than a powerful stream, in order to wash. Low water pressure can quickly lengthen the time of a shower, yet it is a problem easily avoidable. New data from Mira Showers suggests that 53% out of the 1,000 Brits it surveyed see their water pressure dropping in the summer months, with half of the respondents saying it disrupts their daily routine.
Emily Robertson at Mira Showers has shared her three top hacks for boosting your shower’s performance and making low pressure a thing of the past. Firstly, she suggests giving your showerhead a proper clean, as this simple step can often ease the problem. “Over time, limescale builds up inside your showerhead and can seriously restrict water flow,” Ms Robertson says.
The expert recommends: “Remove the head and soak it overnight in a 1:1 water and white vinegar solution to dissolve any deposits. If the limescale is stubborn, try a non diluted solution of white vinegar. Give it a good rinse in the morning, then you’ll likely notice a much stronger, more satisfying spray.”
If cleaning doesn’t solve the issue, checking for blockages may be your next best solution. Most showers have filters to protect the product from damage due to debris, but if these filters get blocked, they can reduce the shower’s performance.
Ms Robertson says to make sure the isolators and stop taps are fully open to increase the flow.
Replacing your showerhead is the next best option, as if your showerhead or hose is heavily clogged, it may be beyond saving, the expert says. “Look for models produced specifically for your shower type such as showerheads for electric showers designed to make the pressure feel stronger. An adjustable showerhead with multiple spray settings can also help you find your perfect pressure,” she explains.
Every regional water company must provide a minimum amount of water pressure to each home. However, the expert says the exact amount of pressure you receive will depend on various factors, including how far you live from the source, how hilly the surrounding area is, and how much water is being drawn by your neighbours.
In the summer months, water pressure can often dip due to increased demand on water supply systems with more people using water for gardening, filling paddling pools, and sprinklers.
Ms Robertson says: “If you experience this, consider scheduling your showers during off-peak hours, like early mornings or late evenings, to enjoy a better flow.”
