Increasing your water pressure can be difficult.Many causes of low water pressure can be solved by yourself.If you want to increase water pressure, you have to decide if you need to only increase pressure at one faucet, fix a broad yet recent low pressure problem, or address a history of low Pressure.Depending on the issue you're dealing with, the solution will vary.
Step 1: Problems with hot water supply can be addressed.
If only your hot water taps have low pressure, look for a problem.The most common problems are the water heater and the hot water supply line.If that doesn't work, then you should flush the tank.If you want to prevent this from happening again, you need to replace the anode rod.The hot water supply pipes are too small.Most of the time the pipe leading from your water heater should have a 34" (19mm) diameter.There are leaks in the tank.If the leak is small and you have experience with plumbing projects, you should attempt to repair it yourself.
Step 2: Check the pipes.
Low pressure can be caused by leaks.It's a good idea to conduct a quick check for damp spots beneath pipes.Fix any pipes that are leaking.Small damp spots can be caused by condensation.Come back the next day to see if the paper towels are wet.There is a problem if they are.
Step 3: It is a good idea to test your toilet for leaks.
The toilet mechanism doesn't block the flow from the tank to the bowl.If you put a few drops of food coloring in the tank, you can come back after an hour or two without using the toilet.If there is food coloring in the bowl, your toilet needs to be fixed.A cheap and easy fix is what it usually needs.It's a drain on your pressure if you can hear your toilet running.You can learn how to fix it.
Step 4: To rule out leaks, check the water meter.
If you still haven't found any leaks, it's time to check your water meter.If you want to read the meter, shut off the water in the house.Water is still flowing if the small triangular or disk-shaped dial on the meter is spinning.You have a leak if everything is shut off properly.Wait a couple hours without using any water, then check again.You have a leak if you get a different reading.
Step 5: The shut off valve is completely open.
The master valve is near the water meter.Turn it back to open if it's been knocked to a partially closed position.It only takes a few minutes to test the problem.
Step 6: The Pressure Reducing Valve needs to be inspected.
The PRV is usually installed where the line enters the building.A bell shaped valve reduces the supply of water to a safe pressure for your building.The screw or knob at the top of the PRV can be turned clockwise to increase water pressure.Keep track of the number of turns by turning this only a couple times.Plumbing can be damaged by going too far.Shut off the water supply and disassemble the valve if adjusting the PRV doesn't make a difference.You can either replace the part or just clean it.It is a good idea to find manufacturer instructions.If the city water supply is low or the building is on high ground, not all homes have a PRV.
Step 7: Do you have a water softener?
Setting the water softener to "bypass" will make it work better.If the pressure improves, have someone inspect your machine.
Step 8: Clean the aerator.
The aerator is located at the end of the faucet.Make a note of how the aerator meshes together.Run the faucet for a few minutes to get the gunk out of the pipe.If the aerator parts still look dirty, soak them in a mixture of white vinegar and water for three hours.The same process can be used to clean showerheads.
Step 9: The faucet needs to be disassembled.
Pull the stem up if the faucet still has low pressure.The retaining collar may need to be removed first.There are screws on each side of a single-handled tub faucet.Before removing the stem, assure that these are fully tightened.
Step 10: Fix the faucet.
If you see a washer or spring at the base of the stem, remove them with a screwdriver.If they are broken, replace them.Instructions can be found in this article if you see a more complex mechanism.
Step 11: The faucet needs to be flushed out.
Reunite the faucet after repairing anything that doesn't work.The water should be turned on and off a few times.This should clear out the problem.
Step 12: The old supply pipes should be replaced.
If you live in a cold climate, locate the main supply line at the side of your house or in the basement.If the supply pipe is silver and magnetic, it's galvanized steel.Water flow is slowed by old galvanized pipes.Replacing these with copper or plastic pipes may be the solution to your problem.
Step 13: Check the size of the pipe.
If you don't have enough water, a small pipe can cause problems.A rule of thumb is that the supply pipe diameter should be at least 34 (19mm), or 12 (13mm) if it serves more than one bathroom.You can get a more specific recommendation from a plumbing professional.
Step 14: The city has a poor water supply.
Ask your water supply company for your neighborhood's "static water pressure" if you have ever had this problem.The city supply could be the problem if the answer is below 30 psi.Purchase and install a water pressure booster if you want to address this.It is possible to damage or break pipes if you boost water pressure.Higher supply pressures may not be enough for a multi-story house or a house on a hill.60 psi should be enough even in these situations.Pressure adjustments should be left to a professional if your water supply comes from a well.
Step 15: You can test the supply pressure.
A pressure gauge can be found at a hardware store.Ice makers and running toilets are not allowed in your home.Attach the gauge to the hose bib.The water service might have an issue with the water main if the pressure is lower than claimed.You can find out if you can get your water service to fix it by talking to them.You should install a water pressure booster if you can't get the service to fix it.Demand and water pressure fluctuate.To get a more accurate sense of the range, try again at a different time of day.