Understanding Water Pressure Issues
Water pressure problems can range from annoying to damaging. Understanding the causes helps you find the right solution quickly.
Normal Water Pressure:
- Ideal range: 45-60 PSI
- Acceptable: 40-80 PSI
- Too low: Below 40 PSI
- Too high: Above 80 PSI (can damage plumbing)
Low Pressure Problems:
Causes of Low Pressure
Whole-House Low Pressure:
- Municipal supply issues
- Partially closed main valve
- Clogged pressure regulator
- Corroded pipes
- Water leak somewhere
- Undersized pipes
Single Fixture Low Pressure:
- Clogged aerator
- Partially closed fixture shutoff valve
- Restricted supply line
- Faulty fixture
Well System Low Pressure:
- Failing well pump
- Waterlogged pressure tank
- Wrong pressure switch settings
- Low water level in well
- Clogged well screen
Solutions for Low Pressure
Quick Fixes:
- Clean clogged aerators
- Fully open main and fixture valves
- Check for hidden leaks
- Clean showerheads
Equipment Solutions:
- Install pressure booster pump
- Replace pressure regulator
- Upgrade well pump
- Replace waterlogged pressure tank
- Install larger pipe diameter
High Pressure Problems:
Dangers of High Pressure
- Leaking faucets and toilets
- Burst pipes or hoses
- Damaged appliances
- Water heater stress
- Excessive water usage
- Noisy pipes (water hammer)
Solutions for High Pressure
Pressure Reducing Valve (PRV):
- Installs on main water line
- Adjustable to desired pressure
- Protects entire home
- Should last 7-12 years
- Must be properly sized
Maintenance:
- Test pressure regularly
- Adjust PRV as needed
- Replace when worn
- Install pressure gauge for monitoring
Inconsistent Pressure:
Causes
- Failing pressure tank (well systems)
- Municipal supply fluctuations
- Faulty pressure switch
- Partially clogged pipes
- Thermal expansion issues
Solutions
- Replace pressure tank
- Install expansion tank
- Adjust pressure switch
- Install pressure booster with tank
- Clean or replace pipes
Diagnosing Pressure Problems:
DIY Pressure Test
- Purchase pressure gauge ($10-20)
- Attach to outdoor hose bib
- Turn off all water in house
- Read static pressure
- Test at different times of day
When to Call a Professional
- Pressure consistently too low or high
- Sudden pressure changes
- Well pump issues
- Need to install pressure equipment
- Extensive piping problems
- Can't identify the cause
Prevention Tips:
- Test pressure annually
- Clean aerators every 6 months
- Maintain pressure regulators
- Service well systems regularly
- Address leaks promptly
- Install pressure gauge for monitoring
Well-Specific Pressure Issues:
Pressure Tank Problems
- Check air pressure (should be 2 PSI below cut-in)
- Drain tank if waterlogged
- Replace if bladder failed
- Proper sizing critical
Pump Issues
- Test pump performance
- Check for short cycling
- Verify proper pump size
- Inspect pressure switch
Our Pressure Services:
- Professional pressure testing
- Diagnosis of pressure problems
- Pressure regulator installation
- Booster pump systems
- Well pump service and replacement
- Pressure tank installation
- Piping upgrades
Equipment We Install:
- Pressure reducing valves
- Booster pumps and systems
- Pressure tanks (all sizes)
- Expansion tanks
- Pressure monitoring gauges
- Water hammer arrestors
