Why Your Shower Water Pressure Drops in Summer
The first time I noticed the pressure drop, I assumed it was just a fluke. It was a busy weekend, our rental guests had checked out that morning, and I had finally gotten a quiet moment to take a shower.
But instead of a strong, refreshing spray, I got a sad trickle—and it wasn’t the first time.
Sound familiar? If your shower water pressure seems to dip every summer, you’re not imagining it. At Budd’s Plumbing, we get dozens of calls each season from homeowners and rental property managers throughout Cape May and Atlantic Counties dealing with the exact same issue.
Here’s why it happens—and what can be done about it.

1. Seasonal Water Demand Spikes
Summer brings crowds to the Jersey Shore. Between rental homes, full-time residents, and businesses operating at full capacity, the overall demand on local water supply is at its peak. That spike can affect pressure, especially in neighborhoods with older infrastructure or shared water mains.
How Budd’s Helps:
We assess your property’s supply pressure and flow rates. In many cases, pressure regulators, booster pumps, or upgraded supply lines can make a big difference—especially in homes with high fixture counts or multi-level layouts.
2. Clogged Showerheads and Faucets
It doesn’t take much buildup to impact performance. Shore water contains minerals that cause sediment buildup. Combine that with sand, sunscreen, and hair from frequent showering, and your fixtures can slowly become restricted.
How Budd’s Helps:
We’ll clean, descale, or replace showerheads and aerators as needed. We can also inspect internal plumbing to check for deeper blockages or buildup if it’s affecting multiple areas of the home.

3. Partially Closed Valves or Failing Pressure Regulators
We’ve been called in more than once to solve “low water pressure,” only to find that a valve was partially closed after service—or a failing pressure regulator was choking the flow to the entire home.
How Budd’s Helps:
We perform a full system check, from your main shutoff to your pressure-reducing valve. If you have a regulator that’s failing or miscalibrated, we’ll replace it and restore steady, reliable pressure.
4. Water Heater Limitations
If the pressure issue only happens with hot water—or fluctuates between hot and cold—the problem may be in the water heater itself. Sediment buildup inside the tank or a corroded dip tube can impact flow.
How Budd’s Helps:
We flush and service tank water heaters, inspect tankless systems for mineral buildup, and replace worn components when needed.
5. Multi-User Overload
If everyone is showering at once—especially in rental homes with multiple bathrooms—your plumbing system may not be equipped to keep up with the demand.
How Budd’s Helps:
We evaluate plumbing layout and capacity. In some cases, adding a pressure-boosting system or upgrading the main water line can provide more consistent service, even during peak use.

Don't Just Deal With It. Fix It!
Low water pressure isn’t just annoying—it’s a sign your plumbing system may be under strain. Whether it’s poor fixture performance, seasonal overload, or a deeper system issue, Budd’s Plumbing is here to help. We know the demands of coastal homes and high-turnover properties, and we offer reliable service across Cape May and Atlantic Counties.
If your shower’s lost its power, let us take a look.
Call 609-465-3759 or request service at buddsplumbing.com