How To Increase Water Pressure In Your House

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How to Increase Water Pressure in Your House

By Family Handyman

Family Handyman's Editorial Process

Updated on Jul. 26, 2024

Tried everything? Learn how to increase water pressure with a water pressure booster pump.

Introduction

Do you have low water pressure even though the pipes are new? There are several possible causes, but if nothing else works, install a water pressure booster at the water meter.

Tools Required

• Adjustable wrench
• Air compressor
• Air hose
• Soldering torch
• Tube cutter

Materials Required

• Copper pipe and fittings
• Flux
• Solder
• Teflon tape
• Water pressure booster

Project step-by-step (5)

Step 1

Test your Water Pressure

• Hook up the pressure gauge to an outside water spigot.
• Turn on the water.
• Read the instant reading.
  • Make sure the shutoff valves near the water meter are fully open.
  • If the reading is low, the city may be delivering water at a low pressure (less than 40 psi)
  • If your house is on city water, ask your local water department for a pressure reading.
• A reading of 45 to 55 psi is ideal.

Step 2

Pressure Booster

• If you have low water pressure, your water department can’t deliver more pressure and you have a 3/4-in. or bigger copper or plastic water main coming into your house, consider installing a water pressure booster.
• Water pressure boosters like the one shown here are available at home centers and online for about $900.

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Complete DIY projects like a pro! Sign up for our newsletter! Sign up Do It Right, Do It Yourself! Step 3

Inspect your Pressure-Reducing Valve

• Check for a pressure-reducing valve (PRV) mounted on your water main.
• Most come set from the factory for 50 psi, but you can adjust them up or down by turning a screw on top.
• PRVs can also go bad after 10 to 20 years. So if yours is old, it might be time to replace it.

Step 4

Call City Hall

• Call your local water department to see if there’s a problem with the pressure coming from the street to your house and with the recommended residential water pressure.
• If you get your water from a private well, your well pump might be the cause of your pressure woes.

Step 5

Too MUCH water pressure?

• If your pressure test shows more than 80 psi, make sure you have a working pressure-reducing valve and keep it set between 50 and 60 psi.
  • Pressure over 80 psi can cause you to waste water and the energy required to heat it. It can also damage water softeners, water heaters, faucets, appliances and seals.