How to Increase Well Water Pressure in Your Home

Have you ever stepped into the shower and realized the water only came out in trickles? Or maybe you've turned on the dishwater only to find out the water isn't enough to clean all your dishes.

Low well water pressure is a nuisance for any home, especially for the 40 million people in the U.S. using a domestic well for their washing or drinking needs. However, it's a fixable issue that you can solve through DIY methods or with the assistance of a professional plumber. (1)

Got pressure problems? Then keep reading! This article explains why your water pressure is that way and explores solutions so you know how to increase well water pressure in your home.

Why You Have Low Water Pressure

Before you jump to solutions, you must understand why you're experiencing weak water pressure. There are several potential causes, and identifying the right one can help you fix the problem faster and more effectively.

Pump issues: A poorly functioning pump is often the first suspect. It could be inefficient, have worn-out parts, or even be set incorrectly, causing low water pressure.

Well problems: A clogged well screen or a damaged casing can block water flow, while an insufficient water supply can reduce the pressure you receive at home.

Plumbing issues: Leaks, mineral buildup restrictions, or pipes too small for your water demand can also cause low pressure.

Low Yielding Well: A well that run doesn’t have an adequate supply. If you are experiencing a low yielding well then you may want to consider well water harvesting to increase your water storage capacity and increase your pressure to provide your home with enough water. This will also protect your well from overpumping which can be a cause of premature well failure. 

If you do not have a low yielding well and your pressure is getting weaker then you may want to have it checked immediately.

Diagnosing the Problem

Good observation skills help you diagnose what's going on. To determine the cause of your low water pressure, you must inspect your well pump, test the well, and examine your plumbing system. Begin by carefully inspecting your well pump for any signs of leaks, unusual noises, or overheating. Verify that the pump settings are correct and adjust them if necessary.

Next, test the well by measuring the water flow rate and pressure using a pressure gauge. Check for signs of water quality issues, such as discoloration or sediment. If you notice any abnormalities, they may indicate a problem with the well itself.

Finally, examine your plumbing system for leaks, clogs, or undersized pipes. Test water pressure at different points in your home to identify the source of the problem.

Solutions for Increasing Water Pressure

Now that you've identified the root of the problem, you're ready to do some easy fixes. Here's how to increase well water pressure in your home correctly:

a) Adjusting Pump Settings

Is your pump set too low? Increasing the pressure switch setting could improve water pressure. You may also need to adjust the pump's pressure regulator to guarantee peak efficiency.

b) Improving Well Efficiency

Sometimes, the problem lies with your well. Cleaning or replacing the well screen could help enhance water flow. If the well casing is damaged, you may need to repair or replace it. Increasing the depth of the well may also be necessary to access a more reliable water source.

c) Upgrading the Plumbing System

If your plumbing system can't handle the demand for water, replacing undersized pipes or repairing leaks and clogs could increase water pressure. In certain situations, installing a water pressure booster pump might be necessary.

In any case, take care not to increase your water pressure too much, even if your plumbing system can manage it. Knowing how to improve well water pressure also involves understanding the potential water you could waste when things go wrong.

According to studies, the average household can waste up to 180 gallons a week. It's not only a blow to your utility bills but also to the environment. So, make it a point to enhance your water pressure correctly and adequately for what your home needs. (2)

DIY Tips and Tricks

Apart from those solutions, you can try some DIY tips and tricks to improve your well water pressure. Consider the following methods:

Regular maintenance: Routinely clean your well pump and water pressure tank to prevent buildup and ensure optimal performance. Taking care of your equipment this way keeps it running smoothly for longer. Plus, you'll deal with fewer breakdowns.

Flushing the water heater: Have you ever flushed your water heater? It clears out sediment that slows down water flow. That buildup doesn't just reduce pressure—it can wear out your heater faster than you'd expect.

Repairing leaks: Leaks in faucets or pipes waste water, reduce pressure, and even cause severe water damage to your house. Fixing these leaks promptly can help to enhance your water pressure.

Plumbing could be risky to complete without professional help, and you might get injured while doing it. In 2020, around 3% of emergency room visits were related to home improvement projects. So, when settling for a DIY fix for your water well, make sure you're wearing and using the proper gear to stay safe. (3)

When to Call a Professional

Not completely sure how to increase well water pressure on your own? Are your DIY efforts not enough to solve the problem? Call the experts! Professional plumbers or water well service providers have the skills and tools to handle most water pressure concerns.

Stumped by your well's mechanics or electrics? The pros can help with those tricky bits. Some complex issues are also best dealt with by them rather than by yourself.

Final Thoughts

Now you know how to increase well water pressure. You don't have to live with faucets that release thin streams of water every day. These methods will help you regain adequate water pressure to fulfill your daily tasks that need lots of water.

You can fix the problem yourself, but if there's something too complicated, don't be afraid to find a professional for the job. Experts can make repairs that last longer and ensure your home's well water system provides the right amount of clean and usable running water each time you turn on the tap.

References

1. "Do You Rely on a Domestic Well for Your Drinking Water?," Source: https://www.usgs.gov/news/updated-information-locations-domestic-well-use 

2. "Statistics and Facts," Source: https://www.epa.gov/watersense/statistics-and-facts 

3. "Emergency room visits related to DIY projects spiked in 2020," Source: https://www.washingtonpost.com/business/2022/05/24/can-your-diy-result-visit-er/