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.
How do I test my water pressure?

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

  1. Place a 1-litre measuring jug under the shower or tap
  2. Turn the shower or tap on full

  3. Time how long it tasks to f it takes more than 6 seconds to fill the jug, your pressure is considered low

How do I test my water pressure infographic?
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.

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.

  1. Turn all taps in and outside of your home off
  2. Secure the pressure gauge to your outside tap

  3. Turn the tap on full for an accurate reading

  4. 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?  

Low water pressure could be caused by many reasons, including:

  • High demand at busy times (usually between 7 am and 9 am)

  • Narrow pipes, especially in older properties

  • Blocked pipes, caused by limescale, rust or dirt

  • Clogged appliances

How to increase your pressure

  • Clean taps and shower heads

  • Check the shower hose isn’t kinked or damaged

  • Replace shower head

  • Fit a shower pump

  • Install a power shower

Keep your sun shining

PlusHeat offer extensive home emergency cover so you can protect your home (and your wallet!) when things go wrong. We offer 24/7 advice and support with boiler and central heating, plumbing, electrical and drainage cover. Contact our friendly team on 0808 164 2892. We’re here to help!