Tools and Materials
Tools
- Water Pressure Gauge
- Water Pressure Regulator
Water Pressure Booster
- Scrubbing Brush
Materials
Vinegar
Baking Soda
Steps to Increase Water Pressure in Home
To increase the water pressure in your home, follow these simple steps:
The first step in improving the water pressure in your home is to test it with a water pressure gauge. When you fix the gauge into a hose faucet and turn it on, the needle dial will read your home’s water pressure.
The ideal water pressure ranges between 40 to 80 pounds per square inch (psi) with a recommended home water pressure of 60 psi. Any reading under 40 psi indicates low water pressure.
A water pressure regulator is a device that maintains the water pressure in your home. If your regulator is faulty, it can lead to low water pressure. Typically, the regulator will be placed near your home's main water valve. It is a bell-shaped valve with a small screw on top for adjustments.
If the water pressure gauge reading is below 40 psi, it might indicate that the regulator needs calibration. Adjusting or replacing a faulty regulator can instantly increase water pressure in your home.
- Adjust Pressure Reducing Valves
If you notice that your home’s water pressure is too high or too low, you must adjust your pressure-reducing valve. It is crucial for maintaining safe and consistent water pressure in your home. To increase water pressure, turn the small screw on top clockwise. To decrease it, turn the screw counterclockwise.
Always consult a plumber if you’re unsure of how to increase the water pressure in your home. This is especially important when you need to adjust the regulator safely.
Testing flow rate is vital because it helps identify whether your plumbing system can handle the simultaneous demand of multiple fixtures. If you notice a significant drop in pressure when several taps are opened, it may indicate that your PRV needs adjusting or that your system has insufficient capacity.
Damp areas or areas with water puddles may indicate a leak in your water system. Leaks can drastically reduce your water pressure and also lead to water contamination and corrosion of your pipes. Stainless steel is particularly susceptible to such corrosion and contributes to the leakage problem. Fixing such leaks should help increase the water pressure in your home.
Homes that have a hard water supply are more vulnerable to mineral build up. This can lead to low water pressure as mineral build ups tend to clog fixtures. Cleaning these fixtures regularly and getting rid of any build up will help improve the water pressure in your home.
Follow the steps below to clean your faucets, fixtures and showerheads.
Steps to clean faucets, fixtures and showerheads.
- Remove the fixture: For most faucets and showerheads, it is possible to unscrew the fixtures by hand.
- Soak in vinegar or baking soda: Soak your fixtures in vinegar or baking soda. This will help remove dirt or buildup.
- Scrub the showerheads and fixtures: Brushing the showerheads and fixtures will also help dissolve the mineral deposits.
- Rinse and Reinstall: Rinse your fixtures and showerheads with water and firmly reinstall them. Then, test the water pressure to see if it has improved.
If the water pressure is still low, it is better to replace the parts to increase the water flow rate.
Many homes, especially those in areas with naturally low water pressure, may need to install a pressure booster. These devices are designed to increase the water pressure and raise it to the proper level.
A booster pump may act as a long-term solution to how to increase water pressure in home and ensure proper water pressure in every faucet, shower head and appliance.
Always consult a plumber before installing a water pressure booster. This is especially important as a water pressure booster may cause significant strain on your pipes and it is important to determine whether your house's piping can withstand that level of pressure.