Low Water Pressure in Taps? What Causes It in Edinburgh Properties

Low Water Flow in Taps? What Causes It in Edinburgh Properties

What You Need to Know and When to Call a Plumber

Are your taps trickling instead of flowing? Low water pressure or reduced water flow is a common issue in many homes across Edinburgh — and it can be more than just a minor annoyance. Whether you’re struggling to fill the kitchen sink or your shower has turned into a weak dribble, low water flow can disrupt your daily routine and sometimes signal a more serious plumbing problem.

At Able Girl Plumbing, we regularly help homeowners get to the root of poor water flow. In this article, we explain the most likely causes of low water flow in Edinburgh homes and what you can do to resolve it.

1. Clogged Tap Aerators

Most common in: Bathroom and kitchen sinks

Over time, mineral deposits from Edinburgh’s relatively hard water can build up inside the aerator — that small mesh filter at the tip of your tap.

🛠 Fix:
Unscrew the aerator (use a cloth to avoid scratching), clean it with vinegar to dissolve limescale, then rinse and reattach. You’ll be surprised how often this simple fix restores normal flow.

2. Partially Closed Isolation Valves

Most common after plumbing work

Every tap in your home has a nearby isolation valve. If one has been left partially closed after a repair or installation, it can restrict water flow.

🛠 Fix:
Check under your sink or behind the toilet for small metal valves. Use a flathead screwdriver to gently turn them fully open.

3. Limescale Build-Up in Pipes

Most common in older homes with copper pipes

Limescale and sediment can accumulate inside pipes, especially in areas with hard water. Over time, this reduces the internal diameter of the pipe and limits flow.

🛠 Fix:
This is harder to DIY. A professional plumber can assess your system and may recommend descaling, power flushing, or replacing sections of pipe if they’re badly affected.

4. Shared Supply Issues

Most common in flats and tenements

In many older Edinburgh properties — particularly Victorian and Edwardian tenements — water is often supplied via a shared mains. If multiple neighbours use water at once, you may notice a drop in pressure.

🛠 Fix:
There’s not much you can do to the shared supply, but we can explore solutions such as installing a booster pump or adjusting your system to store and pressurise water more effectively.

5. Faulty Tap Cartridges or Washers

Most common in mixer taps

Modern taps often contain cartridges that regulate flow and temperature. If one becomes clogged or worn, it can restrict water even when the handle is fully open.

🛠 Fix:
A plumber can remove and replace the faulty cartridge or washer. In some cases, it’s more cost-effective to replace the tap altogether — we’ll always give honest advice.

6. Water Supply Problems

Most common during roadworks or emergencies

Sometimes the problem lies outside your property. Scottish Water may be carrying out maintenance, repairs, or upgrades in your area that temporarily affect pressure.

🛠 Fix:
Check the Scottish Water website or ask neighbours if they’re having the same issue. If it persists, contact your water supplier or get in touch with us for further investigation.

7. Internal Leaks or Blockages

Most serious but less visible

A hidden leak or blockage inside your plumbing system can affect water flow. If only some taps are affected or if flow varies throughout the day, this might be the cause.

🛠 Fix:
This requires a professional diagnosis. At Able Girl Plumbing, we use tools like pressure testers and thermal imaging to identify hidden plumbing issues without tearing up your home.

Final Thoughts: Don’t Ignore the Dribble

Low water flow isn’t always a serious issue — but it’s often a sign that something needs attention. A quick DIY check might solve it, but persistent problems usually require professional help.

At Able Girl Plumbing, we’re here to help you get your water pressure back to normal. Whether it’s cleaning a blocked aerator or tracking down a bigger issue in your pipework, we provide honest, no-fuss service across Edinburgh.