Get the Best Pressure Possible
Are you going crazy or is your water stream really waning? If each shower seems a little weaker or every dish is harder to rinse – you might be dealing with weak water pressure. Alternatively, banging pipes, leaky taps and a constantly running toilet could be the warning signs of excessive force.
You really want to be searching for the goldilocks of water pressure. Finding that “just right” level means you can increase comfort while bathing and save time while cleaning.
Your level indicates how quickly water travels through your home’s pipes and into faucets.
The best way to test the level is with a water pressure gauge. It’s an affordable and simple way to inspect how well your water is traveling to your faucets.
Easy Steps to Using a Water Pressure Gauge
Start off by finding a gauge that works great with your budget and equipment. These helpful tools are available for purchase for as little as $5. Order one online or check out your local home improvement store to kick things off.
Once you have a reliable water pressure gauge the process is easy.
- Turn off all of your taps and water-reliant appliances.
- Find an outdoor faucet to use as your testing location if you use city water. If your water comes from a well, pick a fixture close to the tank.
- Screw on your pressure gauge using your hands, pliers or a wrench.
- Turn on the faucet all the way and pay close attention to the dial to see what your pressure levels are.
This is all it takes to get a good gauge!
What is the Ideal Water Pressure for My Home
Most homes have a water pressure ranging from 40 to 60 psi. Especially for houses with older or less stable pipes you do not want to exceed 60 psi as it could cause damage or leaks.
Your water could be flowing up to levels around 75-80 psi. This is not recommended at all and does not make your water more efficient.
If your water pressure is closer to 35 psi it is too low and you could experience issues using your shower, kitchen sink and other faucets. Good luck washing your car or rinsing conditioner from your hair with those levels!
How to Change Your Water Pressure
Is your water pressure level outside of the ideal 40-60 psi range? No need to fear, you should be able to make quick adjustments with a wrench or a screwdriver.
Follow this proven method for adjusting your home’s water pressure.
- Go inside to your water supply shutoff area
- Find the pressure reducer valve. It’s a bell shape attached with a bolt or screw at the end. It is connected to the main line of water that comes into your house.
- Catch to see if there is a tag on the bolt, it should tell you how low or high to keep the water psi in your pipes.
- Examine your pressure reducer valve to determine if you need a wrench or a screwdriver.
- Increase or decrease your home’s water pressure by screwing the bolt in or out. Turn the bolt clockwise for more pressure and counter clockwise to reduce the pressure.
- Start with small quarter to half turns and check the gauge each time you adjust the pressure.
- Continue making quarter turns and checking your gauge until your water pressure level is ideal.
When in Doubt Call a Plumber for Help
Have you noticed a sudden change in your water pressure? Did you adjust your pressure valve and see no improvements?
You need a plumber’s help to get your water flowing at optimal levels. It’ll lead to a better use and is the best for your pipes.
Mike Wilson Plumbing fixes water pressure and plumbing problems around the Richmond and Chesterfield, VA area. Our father-son team is known for excellent service and some of the best work in town. Give us a call today for answers to your most pressing plumbing questions.