If you’ve noticed your shower isn’t as powerful as it used to be or your taps are barely trickling, it might be time to check your water pressure. Knowing how to check water pressure at home can help you diagnose issues like low flow, high pressure that could damage appliances, or inconsistent water delivery. Whether you have a pressure gauge or not, this guide will walk you through the steps to check your water pressure easily and effectively.
Water pressure affects everything from your morning shower to the efficiency of your dishwasher. Low water pressure can be frustrating and inconvenient, while high water pressure can lead to burst pipes or damaged appliances.
By regularly checking your water pressure, you can identify potential issues early and take action before they become costly problems. It also helps you maintain a consistent and comfortable water flow throughout your home.
The most accurate way to check your water pressure is with a water pressure gauge. These inexpensive devices can be found at most hardware stores. They attach directly to your outdoor tap or hose bib, giving you an immediate reading of your water pressure in pounds per square inch (PSI).
If you don’t have a water pressure gauge, don’t worry—you can still check your water pressure using alternative methods. The bucket test, shower flow test, and faucet flow comparison are all effective ways to estimate water pressure without specialised tools.
Before you can check the water pressure, you need to locate your main water supply. This is usually found outside your home, near the water meter or where the main water line enters your property. Make sure no other water-using appliances or taps are on, as this could affect the reading.
Screw the pressure gauge onto the outdoor tap or hose bib, ensuring it’s tightly secured to prevent leaks. If you’re unsure about the process, you can use a wrench to ensure a firm connection. A loose attachment could give an inaccurate reading.
Turn the tap on fully and observe the pressure gauge. The needle should settle within a few seconds, giving you a reading of your water pressure. For most homes, a reading between 40 and 60 PSI is considered normal. Anything below 40 PSI may indicate low water pressure, while readings above 80 PSI could suggest high pressure that needs to be addressed.
Once you’ve got your reading, it’s essential to understand what it means. If your pressure is within the normal range, you’re good to go. However, if it’s too high or too low, you may need to investigate further. Clearing blocked pipes can sometimes help if low pressure is caused by obstructions in your plumbing system.
The bucket test is a simple way to estimate water pressure without any special tools. Place a large bucket under a fully open tap and measure how long it takes to fill. If the bucket fills quickly, your pressure is likely adequate. A slow fill time could indicate low water pressure.
If your shower feels weaker than usual, you can test the water pressure using a flow test. Place a measuring jug under the showerhead and time how long it takes to fill to one litre. Ideally, it should take around six seconds. If it takes longer, your water pressure may be too low.
Compare the water flow from different taps around your home. If one tap has noticeably weaker pressure than others, it could indicate a localised issue, such as a blockage or a faulty valve. If all taps are affected, the problem may be with your main water supply.
Low water pressure can be caused by several factors, including clogged pipes, leaks, or issues with the water supply. If you’ve recently experienced construction work nearby, sediment build-up could also be affecting your water flow.
Before calling a plumber, there are a few things you can try to improve your water pressure. Cleaning clogged aerators on taps, checking for leaks, and ensuring your stop valves are fully open can all help. If low pressure persists, you might need professional help with fixing low water pressure from professionals like us at FS Group.
High water pressure isn’t just a nuisance—it can cause serious damage to your plumbing system. Excessive pressure can lead to burst pipes, leaks, and premature wear on appliances like washing machines and dishwashers. It can also result in noisy pipes or water hammer sounds.
If your water pressure is too high, installing a pressure reducing valve (PRV) is the most effective solution. A PRV can be adjusted to maintain a safe and consistent water pressure throughout your home. If you’re not comfortable installing it yourself, it’s best to get a professional plumber to do it for you.
Knowing how to check water pressure at home can help you identify issues early, prevent damage to your plumbing system, and maintain a comfortable water flow. Whether you use a pressure gauge or one of the alternative methods, regular checks can save you from costly repairs down the line.
For ongoing issues or if you’re unsure about the cause, our team at FS Group is here to help. We provide expert plumbing services, including pressure checks, leak detection, and comprehensive drainage solutions.
Don’t let water pressure problems disrupt your daily life. If you need assistance with fixing low water pressure or require professional plumbing advice, contact FS Group today. Our experienced team is ready to help you keep your home’s plumbing system running smoothly.
