Many factors influence the final water pressure you get in your home. The elevation of the building relative to both the height of the tank/tower and the location of the water main can make a significant difference, as can the size of the main and the number of homes connected to it.
Most homes are equipped with a water pressure regulator to maintain a consistent flow. However, if this regulator malfunctions or is incorrectly set, it can lead to pressure inconsistencies. A professional assessment of your regulator can pinpoint any issues and restore balance to your water system.
The pressure regulator is responsible for ensuring the 100 PSI water coming from the city is controlled to somewhere between 50-80 PSI before it enters your home. This device saves potential damage to pipes and fixtures, but too low of PSI can cause water pressure below your standards.
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.
The short answer is low water pressure in your home arises due to a number of causes. Some include a shut or blocked water meter valve, mineral buildup clogs pipes, corroded pipes, or even a crack in the main city supply pipe to your home.
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.
It's important to maintain your home's water pressure within an acceptable range. The ideal water pressure ranges between 40 and 80 pounds per square inch, with the recommended home water pressure at 60 psi.
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.
The guaranteed standards scheme (GSS) sets out that water companies shall maintain a minimum pressure of water in the communication pipe serving the premises supplied with water of seven metres static head.
Head outside to the water spigot, remove the hose, and screw the test gauge onto the spigot, ensuring the face of the gauge is visible. Turn the spigot valve on and check the reading. This will indicate the amount of pressure coming into your home (from a public utility system or a well).
A pressure regulator controls the water pressure entering your home. If it malfunctions, it can fail to regulate pressure, causing the pressure to rise to dangerous levels and putting stress on your home's plumbing system and appliances.
Drain clogs stemming from several common culprits are often the cause of low water pressure: Accumulation of hair, soap scum, and debris - Hair, dirt, grime, and soap deposits can gradually coat pipe interiors, contributing to low pressure over time.
The ideal water pressure level is between 50-70 PSI.
If your water pressure goes above 70 PSI (even occasionally), you should install a pressure regulator to your main water line.
The higher the psi, the more force the water is putting on your pipes. The ideal water pressure range for most homes is between 60 and 70 psi. If your water pressure is 80 psi or higher, you're likely going to run into some serious plumbing problems.
Pressure tests often involve pumping pressurised air into your plumbing to check for leaks. This is especially important in new fixtures and drain-waste-vent (DWV) systems, which have to be tested before it's too late to swap them out.
A water pressure regulator, also known as a pressure-reducing valve (PRV), is a valve that reduces water pressure as it passes into a home. When water enters a home through the main water line, its pressure is typically too high for the home's plumbing to handle.
Location:
The pressure-relief valve is typically located on the top or side of the tank. It includes a discharge tube that extends to about six inches above the floor. This tube is designed to safely discharge water in case the valve is triggered.
Identifying Low Water Pressure Problems
Confirm whether your water pressure is low with a test gauge. This simple device can attach directly to the hose spigot outside the home. After screwing the test gauge onto the spigot, turn the valve on and check the reading. Most homes operate between 30 and 80 psi.
A plumber will charge anywhere from $200-$800 for materials and labor but a homeowner with a moderate level of maintenance knowledge might be able to switch out their PRV.