Water pressure is an essential factor in the performance of plumbing fixtures and appliances in a home. Low water pressure could lead to ineffective showers, poor cleaning, and slow-filling appliances. On the other hand, high water pressure could cause damage to pipes, fixtures, and appliances. If you are observing any of these issues, you should adjust your house water pressure. This article will describe how to change the house’s water pressure.
1. Check the current water pressure:
Before adjusting your water pressure, you must know the current pressure. You can do this by using a pressure gauge. Attach the gauge to an outdoor faucet and turn on the water. The meter will indicate the current water pressure.
2. Determine the recommended water pressure:
The recommended water pressure for a home is between 40 and 80 psi (pounds per square inch). Anything above or below this reading could cause problems.
3. Adjust the pressure regulator:
Most homes have a pressure regulator installed near the main water line. This regulator controls the pressure of the water that enters the house. You need to locate the regulator and use a wrench to turn the adjustment screw to adjust the pressure. Turn the screw clockwise to increase the pressure and counterclockwise to decrease the pressure.
4. Test the water pressure:
After making the adjustments, it’s essential to test the water pressure again to ensure it’s within the recommended range. Use the pressure gauge to check the pressure at an outdoor faucet.
5. Repeat the process:
If the pressure is still not within the recommended range, you may need to repeat the process until you achieve the desired pressure.
6. Hire a professional:
If you are uncomfortable adjusting the pressure regulator or cannot achieve the desired pressure, it’s best to hire a professional plumber. A plumber can help you change the pressure regulator and ensure the pressure is within the recommended range.
Maintaining the correct water pressure is vital for the performance and longevity of your plumbing fixtures and appliances. In conclusion, adjusting house water pressure is an easy process that anyone can do with basic plumbing knowledge. However, if you are uncomfortable doing it yourself or unable to achieve the desired pressure, hiring a professional plumber is best.