How do I test my water pressure?
24/07/2021
Water pressure is a vital component of your bathroom systems, but what is it and how does it work?
Too high and you risk damaging your home plumbing system every time you turn on a tap. Too low, you’ll struggle to get a decent shower in the morning.
- What should my water pressure be?
- How do I test my water pressure?
- How do I increase or reduce my water pressure?
What should my water pressure be?
Ideally over 15 litres of water per minute. Anything between 10 and 15 is acceptable, but lower than 10 is considered poor. It means that showering, filling a bath or trying to wash up will take much longer than it needs to.
Low pressure
- Place a 1-litre measuring jug under the shower or tap
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Turn the shower or tap on full
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Time how long it tasks to f it takes more than 6 seconds to fill the jug, your pressure is considered low
High pressure
It’s pretty obvious when your pressure is too low, but how do you know if it’s too high? For this, you’ll need a water pressure gauge, which can be purchased from any hardware store.
- Turn all taps in and outside of your home off
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Secure the pressure gauge to your outside tap
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Turn the tap on full for an accurate reading
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Check your reading. Ideally, psi should be between 40 to 60. If it’s over 60, you should get a plumber to check it out. Below 30 and you may leak.
 What next? Â
Low water pressure could be caused by many reasons, including:
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High demand at busy times (usually between 7 am and 9 am)
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Narrow pipes, especially in older properties
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Blocked pipes, caused by limescale, rust or dirt
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Clogged appliances
How to increase your pressure
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Clean taps and shower heads
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Check the shower hose isn’t kinked or damaged
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Replace shower head
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Fit a shower pump
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Install a power shower