How to Increase Water Pressure in Your Home

Does your shower's water flow feel weak? Does it take forever to fill a pot or rinse dishes? Low water pressure can be frustrating, whether it’s a new issue or something you’ve dealt with for years. Several factors can cause this problem, from clogged pipes to issues with your main water supply.

Below, we’ll go over the common reasons for low water pressure and what you can do to fix it.

What Causes Low Water Pressure in Houses?

Low water pressure can happen for several reasons. Some are related to where you live, while others are caused by plumbing problems inside your home.

• Your home’s location: If you live on a hill or far from the main water supply, it takes more effort for water to reach your home. The farther or higher the water has to travel, the weaker the pressure can be.
• Clogged pipes: Over time, minerals, rust, and other debris can build up inside pipes, making it harder for water to flow through.
• Leaky pipes: If there’s a leak somewhere in your plumbing, some water can escape before reaching your faucets. This can lower your water pressure and increase your water utility bills.
• Old or narrow pipes: Older pipes, especially galvanized steel ones, can rust on the inside. This makes the pipe opening smaller and restricts the water flow.
• Clogged aerator: The small screen at the top of your faucet (called an aerator) can get clogged with mineral deposits. This can reduce water flow and lower your water pressure.
• Water pressure regulator issues: Some homes have a water pressure regulator (usually near the main water shutoff valve), which controls the pressure of water coming into your home. If it stops working, your water pressure could be too high or too low.
• Hard water buildup: If you have hard water, minerals like calcium and magnesium can build up inside your pipes and fixtures over time. This can gradually reduce water flow and lead to lower water pressure.
• Partially closed main water valve: The main shutoff valve controls all the water entering your home. If it isn't fully open, it can reduce the water pressure throughout the house.
• Problems with the city water supply: If your neighbors also have low water pressure, there may be an issue with the city’s water system, such as a broken water main or high demand in more populated areas.

What Should Your Home’s Water Pressure Be?

If your water pressure seems low, you might be wondering what the ideal water pressure is. For most homes, water pressure should be between 40 and 80 PSI (pounds per square inch). Anything below 40 PSI is considered low and may cause weak water flow. On the other hand, pressure above 80 PSI is too high and can strain your plumbing system.

Ideally, your home's water pressure should be around 50 to 60 PSI — strong enough for good water flow but not so high that it damages pipes or appliances.

How to Check Your Water Pressure with a Gauge

A water pressure test gauge is a simple tool for measuring water pressure in your home. It has a small dial and connects to a faucet, usually an outdoor spigot. You can find one at most hardware stores or online for under $10.

Here’s how to check your water pressure using a gauge:

1. Turn off the water inside your home. Ensure no one is using sinks, showers, dishwashers, or washing machines while you test the water pressure; otherwise, the reading won’t be accurate.
2. Attach the gauge to an outside spigot. Be sure to screw it on tightly to prevent leaks.
3. Set the gauge to zero. Some gauges have a reset dial or a needle that should be at zero before you turn on the water.
4. Turn on the spigot all the way. Let the water flow for a few seconds and check the reading on the gauge. If you see leaks, tighten the connection and try again.

What Does the Water Pressure Reading Mean?

The pressure reading can tell you different things about your water pressure. Here are the potential results in pounds per square inch (PSI) and what they tell you.

• Below 30 PSI: This is very low water pressure. You’ll likely notice weak flow from faucets and showers, making everyday tasks (like washing dishes and showering) very frustrating. You may want to take the steps described below to increase your water pressure.
• 30 to 40 PSI: This is still considered low water pressure. While it may not be as noticeable as below 30 PSI, you might experience slow-filling appliances and weaker water flow.
• 40 to 80 PSI: This is the normal range for most homes. If your pressure is within this range but still feels low, there could be an issue within your plumbing system.
• Above 80 PSI: Your water pressure is too high, which can stress your pipes and appliances. If the reading is consistently high, you may need to invest in a pressure regulator to protect your plumbing.

Pro tip: You likely also have older pipes if you have an older home. It’s a good idea to test the water supply pressure regularly. Older pipes can corrode, leading to pressure problems over time.

How to Improve Water Pressure in Your House: 5 Steps

If your water pressure is too low, there are a few ways to fix it. Here are some of the best ways to get stronger water pressure in your home.

1. Contact Your Local Water Department

Before making any changes, call your local water department and ask if they offer pressure testing. Some cities will check the main water line that connects to your home for free. If the city’s water supply is the issue, they may be able to fix it. If not, you’ll need to try other solutions.

2. Adjust the Water Pressure-Reducing Valve

Many homes have a water pressure regulator (also called a pressure-reducing valve) near the main water line. This valve controls how much pressure comes into your home. If the setting is too low, you can turn the screw on top of the valve slightly to the right to increase the pressure.

Make minor adjustments and use a pressure gauge to check as you go — your home’s water pressure should be around 50 to 60 PSI. If adjusting it doesn’t help or the valve looks old and worn out, you may need a plumber to replace it.

3. Install a Water Pressure Booster Pump

If the city’s water pressure is weak or your home is on a hill, a water pressure booster pump can help. This small electric pump connects to your main water line and increases pressure before the water enters your home.

A plumber can help you pick the right one and install it properly. Some areas require a permit to install a booster, so check with your local building department before moving forward.

4. Clear Clogged Pipes

Over time, minerals, rust, and debris can build up inside your pipes, slowing down water flow. If your pressure is weak, your pipes make strange noises, or your water looks discolored, buildup could be the problem.

You can try flushing the pipes by turning off the water, removing faucet aerators, and letting the water run at full blast. If your home has old, galvanized pipes, they may be too clogged to fix, and a plumber might need to clean or replace them.

5. Call a Plumber

If you’ve tried these fixes and your water pressure is still low, a plumber can assess the situation. They can check for hidden leaks, clogged pipes, or a broken pressure regulator and get everything working properly again.

Regular plumbing maintenance can also help prevent low water pressure by catching these issues early on. This helps keep your pipes in good condition and extend the lifespan of your plumbing system.

Protect Your Plumbing System With a Home Warranty

Regularly checking your home’s water pressure is a straightforward way to keep your plumbing system in good shape. A home warranty can also help take care of unexpected issues with covered plumbing systems, along with other home systems and appliances.

Want extra peace of mind? Get a free home warranty quote today.

The contents of this article are provided for general guidance only. First American Home Warranty does not assume any responsibility for losses or damages as a result of using this information.

Please be aware that if you disassemble a covered system or item, it can invalidate your home warranty or manufacturer's warranty.