How to Increase Your Home’s Water Pressure

There are few things as frustrating as a home with low water pressure, which can affect the time that it takes to wash soap off in the shower or do the dishes. Although the water company may only be able to offer a certain amount of pounds to your home, there are several ways to boost the pressure yourself. By following a few tips, it’s possible to get your water supply at a faster rate in the home.

Clean the Shower head

By cleaning the internal components of a shower head, your water pressure may increase due to clogged water deposits that are backing up the system. You can also try taking the washer or extra filter out and placing the shower head back on, which should increase the water flow dramatically.

Check the Pressure Reducer Valve

The pressure reducer valve is located near the main in the front of the home where the water enters the pipes. Check to see that the valves are fully open, which is one of the main steps that plumbers take when increasing the water pressure.

Install a More Advanced Toilet

Let’s be honest, one of the most frustrating things about low water pressure is a wimpy toilet that can’t handle the amount of waste that a normal family might have. Often the problem can be solved with a better toilet. There are more advanced models from Kohler and Toto that have a lot of power to them which can solve your pressure problem in the bathroom.

Install a New Pressure Booster

Installing a new pressure booster at the water meter is effective if the city refuses to increase the water pressure to your home. The product costs approximately $300, but will work to improve the flow. Avoid setting it above 80 psi, which can wear down the washers on the pipes. It’s also important to understand that when taking this step, the booster will likely increase your water bill.

Check the Pipes

One of the most common causes of low water pressure is due to clogged pipes. What clogs the pipes can be rust, corrosion or other materials. This can be remedied by replacing the pipes or by back flushing, which can be easier to do than taking them apart.
Pipes can also have small leaks at various joints in the system which aren’t causing a big enough problem to flood a basement, but still cause low pressure in the system. An inspection of the home’s plumbing will reveal if any water has been leaking. Repair these leaks and you’ll find yourself with more powerful plumbing. 

Replace a Faucet Aerator

The water pressure in your home may only be slow with a specific faucet, making it important to replace the aerator simply by unscrewing it. You can also try cleaning it, which may be causing the problem due to the corrosion that has built up over several years of use.

If you suspect that your water pressure is lower than normal, you can use a pressure gauge to determine the flow or contact the city to make an assessment. If your suspicions have been correct, there are a few steps to take to increase the water pressure and have a faster way of having access to the water.