A well’s water pressure may be reduced over a certain period of time due to many causes. A suboptimal flow rate and poor performance in your household's water system can happen at any time. It is often surprising how much can be done merely by adjusting the peak water pressure, usually achieved by a few straightforward repair or maintenance actions. This article presents several efficient techniques for enhancing well water pressure.
Assessing the Problem
If you want to improve the water pressure, you must first identify the present issue.
The reason for low pressure may be due to one or a combination of factors, such as:
Damaged or Clogged Screen
Damage or blockage of the screen covering the well may cause the water to not flow into the pump, resulting in poor pump water pressure.
Worn Pump
If your pump has become old or damaged in any way, it will not be able to supply enough pressure to pump water into your house.
Air in the System
If air is allowed into a water system during the pump installation or routine maintenance, it is impossible to avoid a drop in water pressure.
Cracked Pipes
A pipe crack causes water leakage, affecting the overall pressure of the supplied water.
Low Water Level
With a low water level in your well, the water pressure in your home will be compromised.
Looking at the Causes and Solutions
Once you know what the issue is, we can then review possible solutions.
Clear the Screen
If your screen is blocked, you should remove it, and clean it thoroughly. Remove the debris on the screen by scrubbing it with a wire brush and then rinse the screen with water. After washing and rinsing, replace the screen and check your water flow.
Check the Pump
If your pump is old or is not working effectively, consider replacing it to a pump that will do the job. A local plumber should be able to analyze the current pump and advise whether it is best to replace or repair it.
Remove Air from the System
Once you locate the air pressure valve, unscrew the cap. To release air, you will have to press the valve until you hear air escape. (Hint: use a small tool to press on it). When no more air is emitted, only water will come out, and then you can close the valve again.
Repair Cracked Pipes
If you find any cracks in your pipes, then you will need to have them repaired. You can try to use a patch kit or hire a qualified plumber to fix the damages.
Increase the Water Level
Submersible pumps may help you raise the water level of your well if the well has a low water level. However, you may drill the well deeper to get to a higher water table if necessary.
Adjusting the Pressure Switch
For water pressure management, a pressure switch is essential in its operation.
You can adjust the pressure switch to increase water pressure as follows:
- Do not connect the pump to the electrical supply to avoid electrical shock.
- On top of the pressure switch, turn the screw with the arrow indicating direction. Categorical pressure refers to the pressure at which the pump begins to operate and the pressure at which the pump ceases to operate.
- Gradually give the cut-in pressure until it reaches a specific pressure level. Under no circumstances should the cut-out pressure be raised.
- Reinstall the cover of a pressure switch and turn the power supply to the pump on.
Testing the Results
It is crucial to check the water pressure after you have made some changes to ensure that the water pressure has improved. View the reading in the water pressure gauge and compare the readings in various points within the system; look for readings, more or less, from the normal pressure range of 40-60 PSI.
If you are not content with the result, or if you are in doubt on any of the steps taken here, you should seek professional help from a plumber. Inadequate repairs or maintenance can lead to costly problems in your well and water system later.
Comments