Why You Might Have Low Water Pressure After A Water Heater Replacement
Replacing an old water heater is often a great step toward improving your home’s energy efficiency and hot water reliability. However, it can come with an unexpected side effect: low water pressure. If you’ve noticed low water pressure after a water heater replacement, you’re not alone.
At Niebuhr Plumbing, Heating, and Air Conditioning, we often hear this concern from homeowners in the La Crosse area. While a new water heater typically enhances performance, certain installation details and system adjustments can unintentionally reduce your water pressure. In this guide, our plumbing experts will break down the most common reasons behind this issue—and what you can do to resolve it.
1. Sediment Or Debris In The Lines
During the process of removing the old water heater and installing a new one, sediment or debris from the plumbing system can get dislodged. This material can travel through the pipes and become lodged in faucet aerators, showerheads, or internal plumbing components—especially if the system wasn’t flushed properly after installation.
What You Can Do:
- Remove and clean faucet aerators and showerheads.
- Run all your hot water fixtures for several minutes to help flush the system.
- If the issue persists, have a professional plumber inspect the lines.
2. Pressure-Reducing Valve (PRV) Adjustment
Many homes have a pressure-reducing valve installed to control the water pressure entering the house. In some cases, this valve may have been adjusted or affected during the water heater installation. A slightly misaligned or faulty PRV can significantly reduce hot water pressure.
What You Can Do:
- Check if your home has a PRV (usually located where the main water line enters the home).
- Consult a licensed plumber to test and adjust the valve to the appropriate pressure.
3. Issues With the Shut-Off Valve
The shut-off valve on or near your water heater allows the hot water supply to be isolated during repairs or replacements. If this valve wasn’t fully reopened after installation—or if it’s partially corroded—it can restrict water flow.
What You Can Do:
- Visually inspect the shut-off valve to ensure it’s fully open.
- If the valve is old or corroded, a plumber may recommend replacing it for better performance.
4. Water Heater Dip Tube Problems
The dip tube is a small, often overlooked component inside the water heater that directs incoming cold water to the bottom of the tank for heating. If it’s broken or improperly installed, it may result in uneven water heating or pressure issues on the hot water side.
What You Can Do:
- If you’re only noticing low pressure on the hot water side, have a professional inspect the dip tube during a follow-up service call.
5. A Water Softener Interaction
If you have a water softener connected to your plumbing system, it may impact water pressure—especially if it wasn’t properly reconnected during the water heater replacement. A clogged or aging water softener can restrict water flow throughout the home.
What You Can Do:
- Check to see if your water softener is in bypass mode.
- Have the unit inspected and serviced to ensure it’s working properly and not creating a bottleneck.
6. Air in the Plumbing Lines
During installation, air can enter the water lines. If this air isn’t fully purged, it may cause sputtering or inconsistent water pressure when using hot water fixtures.
What You Can Do:
- Open all hot water taps in your home at the same time and let them run for a few minutes to clear out air pockets.
Final Thoughts
Low water pressure after a water heater replacement can be frustrating, but it’s usually fixable once the root cause is identified. Whether it’s a valve that wasn’t reopened, debris in the line, or a pressure imbalance, many of these issues are common and easily corrected with the help of a professional.
At Niebuhr Plumbing, Heating, and Air Conditioning, we take pride in delivering high-quality, thorough water heater installations to help avoid problems like these from the start. Our team ensures each component is correctly installed, tested, and functioning properly so your new water heater enhances—not hinders—your home’s comfort.
If you’re experiencing lower-than-usual water pressure after a recent installation, the experts at Niebuhr are here to help. We proudly serve La Crosse, Onalaska, West Salem, Sparta, and the surrounding Coulee Region.
