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.

Checking pressureFamily Handyman

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.

Pressure booster

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.

Inspect your pressure-reducing valve diagram

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.

Checking valveFamily Handyman