When you turn on the water at the bathroom or the kitchen sink, you probably don’t consider exactly how it gets there. The water coming through the faucet in your home uses pressure to get from its original source, through the pipes, and to your house.
If the water pressure is too high however, it can cause leaking, banging pipes, or in extreme circumstances, pipe explosions. High water pressure also wastes water.
The water pressure regulator, resembling a hose attachment, is often located near the water main on the outside of the house.
These regulators feature a dial that can adjust the water pressure. However, the pressure should only be increased if the water is coming out of the faucet at a trickle, and decreased if the pressure seems to be too high.
The water company in your area sets the appropriate pressure for the water to get to your home, so changing the water pressure won’t be a necessary part of your home maintenance. The regulator at your home simply ensures the set water pressure from the company is remaining at a safe number, which is around 80 watts, or PSI.
If you notice low water pressure in all of your faucets, including outdoor fixtures and showerheads, chances are the water pressure needs to be adjusted. However, if you notice low pressure in just one faucet, or one area of the home, it might be a leak or a clog of some sort.
Another cause for low water pressure is a water softener. If you notice a difference in water pressure once the water softener has been installed, have it serviced by a technician.
A faucet aerator could be another source of low water pressure, if it’s clogged or blocked. In that case, remove the aerator and clean it before replacing it.
***
Written and published by Thompson Electric, Plumbing, Heating & Cooling.
Comments