Depending on the distance the pipe runs 3/4 inch pipe should be supplied to the Plumbing location with 1/2 inch lines branched off to individual fixtures. I have also seen incidents where to much solder could cause restrictions,and even break off inside the pipes and clog shutoff valves and plumbing fixtures.
Yes, the upstairs shower is leaking through the ceiling.
You can increase water pressure in your shower by optimizing the shower heads. This can be done by cleaning the shower head to remove any mineral deposits that may be blocking the water flow, replacing the shower head with a high-pressure model, or installing a water pressure booster pump to increase the overall water pressure in your home.
Insufficient water pressure or incorrect pipe sizing
When the water pressure in your upstairs bathroom is getting low and you find a white sediment buildup in the aerator of the sink, it is the most likely cause of low pressure. You can also find the buildup in other fixtures including the shower valve and cartridges. Cleaning the sediment from the parts helps restore pressure.
Open up the actual shower head and remove the factory fitted restrictor.
There are several reasons why your shower head may not be providing enough pressure. It could be due to a clog or buildup of mineral deposits in the shower head, a problem with the water pressure in your home, or a faulty shower head. It is recommended to check for any blockages in the shower head and clean it thoroughly. If the issue persists, you may need to consult a plumber to assess the water pressure in your home or consider replacing the shower head.
There is a clog between the sink and the line to the street or septic tank. The sink is the easier path for the upstairs shower.
Common issues with a shower valve include leaks, low water pressure, and temperature fluctuations. Leaks can be fixed by replacing worn-out seals or gaskets. Low water pressure may be due to mineral buildup and can be resolved by cleaning the valve or replacing it. Temperature fluctuations can be caused by a faulty mixing valve and may require adjusting or replacing the valve.
Some effective solutions for dealing with low water pressure in a new shower head include cleaning or replacing the shower head, checking for any clogs in the pipes, adjusting the water pressure regulator, and ensuring that the water supply valves are fully open.
Remove the shower head on the shower and see if it is plugged. Run the water with the shower head off and see if the pressure is better. Depending on where you live there may be a water saving feature on the shower head (mandated by law) for water consevation. Low flow shower heads often have a restricter in them. Delta has a brass washer with a very tiny hole in it and Moen has a rubber plug with 3 small holes in it.
To increase water pressure in your shower with a new shower head, choose a model specifically designed to boost pressure, such as a high-pressure or low-flow shower head. These types of shower heads can help increase the force of the water flow, resulting in higher water pressure during your shower.
Replacing an old or unwanted shower head is usually as easy as unscrewing the current head and replacing it with your new shower head. Simply screw the new shower head on and tighten it with pliers.