Do You Have Low Water Pressure With Your Well System?

If you live in a rural community, chances are you use a well water system to supply fresh water to your home. To get the water out of the ground and into your home, the main component of that system is the well pump. It needs to work reliably each and every day—and for the most part, it’s designed to. However, there are situations when a well pump might struggle to get you the water you need, in the capacity you need it. 

One of the most common complaints from people who use well water systems is low pressure. Ideal water pressure is around 50 psi, which provides enough pressure for satisfying showers without placing too much strain on your appliances and fixtures. Unfortunately, not every well pump will deliver this standard of water pressure, and you might need to investigate why. 

How to spot hard water buildups

Over time, the common minerals found in your water supply can build up in your pipes and plumbing fixtures. “Hard water” buildups within pipes can lead to pressure problems because it becomes more difficult for well pumps to deliver continuous flows. Here are some of the red flags to look for when it comes to hard water blockages and buildups:

• Clogged pipes, drains and showerheads
• Residue in kitchens and bathrooms
• Spots on glasses and silverware after washing
• Dry, itchy skin and dull, frayed hair
• Dull or grimy laundry
• Poor-tasting tap water

If you suspect hard water is the culprit behind your water pressure problems, schedule a pipe cleaning. Then, consider installing a water softener system to prevent the issue from reoccurring in the future.

How to adjust tank water pressure

If hard water isn’t the cause of your water pressure problems, you can try to adjust your water well’s pressure tank. This component uses a pressure switch to adjust the water pressure. Grab a tire pressure gauge and attach it to the air fill valve to measure the water pressure in your tank. If you’re getting a reading under 50 psi, adjust the pressure switch on the tank. Remove the pressure switch cover, then tighten the center nut to increase the pressure range. 

Don’t feel comfortable doing this yourself? It’s something a plumber can tackle in just a few minutes!

Consider a constant pressure system

Noticing a sudden drop in pressure when you’re using multiple plumbing fixtures and appliances at the same time? A standard well water pump often causes a back-and-forth between cut-on and cut-off pressures, providing variations in pressure that can make your morning showers less-than-enjoyable. 

Many homeowners who use a well water system choose to upgrade to a constant pressure system. Your plumber can install an extra component that contains a sensor, which controls the water pressure and keeps it at a constant level. A constant pressure system can be installed directly on your current system—it’s an easy and affordable fix, and you can even get away with having a smaller pressure tank.

Chat with a plumber about low pressure

Owning a well water system comes with plenty of challenges, but you don’t need to live with weak water pressure. Whether you’re losing pressure during showers or it’s difficult to run multiple plumbing fixtures and appliances at the same time, the first step you should take is to reach out to PipeMasters. Contact us today at info@pipemasters.ca or call (289) 404-9063 to get consistent, comfortable water pressure, every day! PipeMasters is part of Oakridge Plumbing Ontario Ltd. and serves the East GTA, Durham Region, North to Lindsay & Peterborough, out to Cobourg and all points in between. All Rights Reserved.