If you’re dealing with low water pressure from your well, don’t worry – you’re not alone. Low well water pressure is a common problem that many homeowners face. Fortunately, there are several ways to fix the issue.
This blog post will discuss the different ways on how to increase water pressure from a well in your home. We will also provide tips on how to troubleshoot low-pressure problems. So, if you’re having trouble getting enough water pressure from your well, read on for some helpful advice!
How To Increase Water Pressure From A Well?
The easiest way to increase water pressure from a well is to adjust the pressure switch located on your water pressure tank. The pressure tank has either a one-post or two-post switch that can adjust the cut-on (low) and cut-off (high) pressure settings on your pressure tank. The settings can have a 20/40, 30/50 or 40/60 psi range between the cut-on and cut-off levels.
How to increase Well Water Pressure
Adjusting the pressure switch is the most straightforward way to increase water pressure from a well.
Usually, the pressure switch is factory-set, but checking the pressure at least once a year is still beneficial.
Pressure switches are either one-post or two-post that allow for adjustments to the water pressure. The pressure system should maintain a relationship between high (cut-off), low (cut-on), and dead-head pressures.
The set relationships are as follows:
- 20/40 (low/high)
- 30/50 (low/high)
- 40/60 (low/high)
The dead-head pressure is what the pump produces when not pushing water.
The highest pressure that turns the pump off is called the cut-off pressure. It should be at least five psi less than the dead-head number.
The lowest pressure that turns the pump on is called the cut-on pressure and should be 20 psi less than the cut-off.
Finally, the tank’s precharge pressure is two psi less than the cut-on pressure.
Once you note all these pressure settings, we can move on to adjusting the pressure switch.
Adjusting A Single Post Pressure Switch
Once you have located and removed the pressure switch cover, you will notice a pressure adjusting nut at the top of the spring coil. Turning the nut clockwise increases the cut-off and cut-on pressure.
For every complete turn, the pressure is increased by 2.5 psi. You would need to turn the nut four times to increase pressure by 10 psi.
Adjusting Dual Post Pressure Switch
These style pressure switches allow simultaneous adjustment of the cut-on and cut-off pressure. The second, smaller nut, is what allows independent cut-off pressure change.
Turn only the main, bigger nut to increase the cut-off and cut-on pressure. The rate of increase is the same as single post switches. This maintains the 20 psi differential between your well system’s cut-off and cut-on pressures.
Turning the smaller nut raises only the cut-off pressure. This is what you will need to increase if you only want to level up the pressure.
How to Improve Well Water Pressure
If you have noticed pressure drops or reduced flow rate coming from your well, you may have a water pressure problem stemming from one part of your well water system. You might be inclined to increase the water pressure every time, but it might be worth your time to inspect where the water pressure problem is coming from.
Troubleshooting low water pressure from your well may seem daunting, but it is simple.
When you start to notice low water pressure coming from your well water system, your first step would be to check the well itself.
Hooking up a pressure gauge to one of the valves leading straight out of the well can help read it. You can also attach the pressure gauge to the pressure tank.
Inspect The Air Fill Valve
It is worth noting the general range you could find your water pressure. The preferred water pressure is between 40 to 60 psi.
Use a pressure gauge to test the air fill valve. If the pressure is outside of the 40-60 psi range above, adjust the pressure switch to get it back into the optimal range.
Get Pipes Inspected
Clogged water pipes are often the culprit if adjusting the pressure switch fails. Minerals and other sediments can accumulate over time and clog up your pipes so much that it affects your home’s water pressure.
It is best to call on a professional to check for blockages and damage caused by mineral buildup. Although getting a pipe inspection can be pricey ($180 to $250), it can be worth the peace of mind.
Take A Look At The Well Water
The water coming from the well itself could be the issue if you find that your water is quite hard. Hard water has calcium and magnesium minerals that can build up over time in your pipes. This can be easy to spot if you notice calcium deposits around your faucets, soap scum around your bath and shower, or your glasses have spots or residue on them.
In this situation, consider installing a water softener. This will remove the hard water and replace it with softer water coming from your well system.
Get A Pump And Pressure Tank Inspection
A failing well pump or pressure tank is another significant contributor to weakened water pressure.
It is possible to try DIY fix a troublesome pump or pressure tank. But, it’s quicker to call up a professional.
Buy And Install A Constant Pressure System
This may be your answer if you have noticed pressure dropping when a couple of fixtures are running simultaneously.
A Constant pressure system ensures that the water pressure doesn’t significantly drop when the demand goes up.
This gadget is attached to the water line entering your house and, with the help of the constant pressure valve, will maintain a constant pressure.
Maintaining Water Well For Optimal Pressure
Caring for your well system is beneficial for your home. Proper maintenance will help you keep the desired water pressure and keep the well running for years to come. Proper care will also be more economical in the long run.
Here’s are some maintenance tips to consider:
- Check that the well cover is fastened correctly and free of any damage every week or two.
- Look around for well pump leaks every 1 to 3 months.
- Book a yearly professional inspection.
- Make use of a professional in places where corrosion and cracks are spotted.
- Test and prevent possible well contaminations in your area—anything from fecal matter to groundwater concerns. Here are some considerations:
- Stay in contact with the city’s public water officials to see if there have been any changes in the local water supply.
- Keep contaminants such as fertilizers, pesticides, and debris away from your well.
- Keep your septic tank at least 50 feet away from your well.
- Keep your well at least 1oo feet away from petrol tanks or manure storage.
- Be wary of using your well for drinking water after a severe flood.
Conclusion
Water pressure problems in a home can be frustrating. You can ensure that your water pressure is up to par by taking the proper steps. If you are unsure of what you are doing, it is always best to contact a professional. With their help, they can get your well system running smoothly again in no time. Plus, they may even be able to offer some maintenance tips specific to your well system.
By following these tips and troubleshooting methods, you will have the optimal water pressure in your home in no time!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How Do I Fix Low Water Pressure From My well?
There are multiple ways that you can try to fix low water pressure from your well. You can check for leaks, get a pump and pressure tank inspection, buy and install a constant pressure system, or add a pressure booster to your system.
How Do I Maintain My Well Water Pressure?
You can maintain your well water pressure by taking preventative measures to ensure that your well system stays in good condition. You should check the well cover and for leaks every week or two, book a yearly professional inspection, and keep contaminants away from your well.
What Causes Low Pressure In A Home With A Well?
Some causes of low water pressure from wells include blockages in the water supply line, failing pumps or pressure tanks, and insufficient air in the pressure tank.
How Often Should I Inspect My Well Pump And Pressure Tank?
You should check your well pump and pressure tank every month or two for leaks, corrosion, or cracks. If you notice any of these issues, you should contact a professional to inspect and repair your system.
What Is The Difference Between A Well Pump And A Pressure Tank?
A well pump is responsible for drawing water from the well and delivering it to the home. A pressure tank stores water that has been pumped from the well so that there is enough water available during periods of high demand. The pressure tank also helps maintain consistent water pressure throughout the home.
How Do I Know If My Well Pump Is Failing?
If your well pump is failing, you may notice a decrease in water pressure, water coming out of the tank or piping, or an increase in the amount of electricity needed to run the pump. If you notice any of these issues, you should contact a professional to inspect and repair your system.
How Do I Know If My Pressure Tank Is Failing?
If your pressure tank is failing, you may notice a decrease in water pressure or water coming out of the tank or piping. If you notice either of these issues, you should contact a professional to inspect and repair your system.
What Is The Ideal Water Pressure For A Well?
The ideal water pressure for a well is between 40 and 60 psi. If the water pressure is lower than this, it may be due to a leak in the system, a problem with the pump or pressure tank, or insufficient air in the pressure tank. If you notice any of these issues, you should contact a professional to inspect and repair your system.
