5 Ways To Increase Well Water Pressure
Low water pressure can be a hassle. Whether you’re trying to take a shower or wash your clothes, you need proper pressure. If you have a low water pressure well, there are certain things you can check and solutions you can implement to help increase the water pressure before worrying about digging a new well.
North Florida Water Systems Inc can help you troubleshoot low water pressure from your well and install the right system to get your water pumping better! Contact us today for more information or to schedule a water well appointment.
Hard Water
Many homes with wells have hard water, which means the water has a high concentration of minerals, such as calcium and magnesium carbonates, bicarbonates, and sulfates. These are generally harmless but can build up in your pipes and fixtures over time and cause blockages resulting in low water pressure. Getting well water testing and treatment can determine what is in your water and remedy it if necessary by adding a soft water treatment.
Pressure Tank Settings
The well water pressure tank is responsible for the speed water from the tank enters your home. Homes that use city water typically supplies water at 60 pounds per square inch (psi). For wells, the default setting for well water pressure tanks is usually 28 psi. Thankfully, you can increase this setting. Most pressure tanks have settings for 20/40, 30/50, and 40/60 psi. The first number indicates the water pressure level in the tank that will signal the water pump to turn on to fill the tank again from the well. The second number indicates the pressure at which to turn the water pump off. You can try different settings to see what’s best for your home, but many choose 40/60 psi.
Higher Flow Capacity Pump
If your pressure tank is already at its highest setting, you’ll need to look for the culprit of your low water pressure further down the supply line. Different well pumps have different flow capacity ratings, meaning if the flow of the water pump is too low, you may need to invest in one with a higher GPM (gallons per minute). If you have a pump with a GPM rating of 12 or above, contact us today for a well pump inspection as water well pump repairs may be required.
Water Pressure Booster Pump
If you live in a multi-story home and notice the pressure on the upper floors is less than on the lower floors, a water pressure booster pump may be the best solution. A water pressure booster pump helps a well pump perform better against gravity by adding a motorized system to the home plumbing to give the water a little extra push.
Constant Pressure System
If your property experiences inconsistent water pressure, consider changing your current pump and tank for a constant water pressure system. Even on the highest setting, standard well pressure tanks fluctuate pressure while flowing by as much as 20 psi. A constant pressure system only allows for a maximum change in pressure of up to 2 psi before it triggers the pump. This lack of variation in pressure will keep it coming from your fixtures more consistent.