Locate the Regulator: If your home has a pressure regulator (usually found where the main water line enters the house), you can adjust it. Increase Pressure: Turn the adjustment screw clockwise to increase pressure. Use a pressure gauge to monitor the changes.
The easiest way to increase water pressure is by adjusting the screw on your pressure regulator - if you have one - or putting in a water pressure booster pump.
Over time sediment and scale can build up and restrict the water flow through your pipework. That's when your hot water tap can begin to trickle. If this is the issue, then you'll need a qualified plumber to inspect your hot water system.
Problems with water system infrastructure, high water demand in your home, and mineral build-up are all common causes of low water pressure. In some cases, low municipal water supply can be at the heart of water flow problems.
In most cases, the easiest way to increase a faucet's flow rate is by replacing the aerator. Try looking for a higher gpm model to allow for more gallons per minute. If you live in a low water pressure area, an aerator designed to restrict water flow might be reducing the flow too much.
Residential booster pumps can increase water pressure throughout the faucets and showerheads in your home, make it possible to install a water fountain feature, water your lawn and garden on a set schedule, and even irrigate crops with the proper GPM ratings.
If the aerator is clogged, it can restrict the flow of water and cause the faucet to run slow. To clean the aerator, you can remove it from the faucet and soak it in vinegar for a few hours. Then, rinse it off and reattach it to the faucet.
Although it is possible to increase water pressure for a single shower or tap, boosting the whole house using a pump is more efficient and guards against future issues. Recommended Pumps: Stainless steel centrifugal pumps, like the 3 Bar Sentinel.
Boost your confidence in adding a booster pump by budgeting before the project begins. The average booster pump installation cost is about $1,200, but it can range from $200 to $10,000.
Clogged pipes: If pipes become clogged, these blockages can disrupt water flow through your pipes. With the flow disrupted, water pressure will also go down. Pipes need to be cleaned out or replaced to address the issue. Corroded plumbing: Clogs can be fixed by cleaning out or replacing small piping sections.
To fix these problems, you'll need to seek assistance from an experienced plumber who will identify the cause of the low water pressure and determine the best way to remedy the problem.
A quick and easy way to increase water pressure is to adjust the pressure-reducing valve, which can be found in your home, usually close to your water meter. If your pressure gauge reading was low, make slight adjustments to your regulator.
If you want to increase pressure, you can try cleaning the aerator, rinsing the filter, or flushing the water supply lines. You can also fine-tune the shut-off valves to increase and decrease pressure. When you're finished, your faucet should run like new!
A water pressure regulator, if you have one, is usually located where the main water line comes into the house and after the main shut off valve. This way if you need to work on or change the water pressure regulator you can simply shut off the water main to do so.
If you've cleaned the aerator and the water flow is still weak, there may be a clog in the pipes. As time goes by, mineral deposits build up in your pipes. This will slow water flow and, eventually, may even cause your pipes to burst. Now is a good time to call in a professional plumber.
Check the main water supply pipe and find the valve next to the meter. You can tighten or loosen the bolt at the top of the valve to increase or decrease water pressure respectively. Tighten the bolt in small increments at a time, then use the pressure gauge to see when you reach the right PSI between 40 and 60.
DIY fixes for low pressure include cleaning aerators and showerheads with vinegar, flushing water heaters, and using a cable snake to clear pipes. If persistent issues remain after trying DIY solutions, consult a professional plumber for expert diagnosis and repairs.