Water Pressure in my Home
The normal pressure for your property will depend on its physical relation to the water source supply (tanks and reservoirs). If your home is at a higher elevation relative to a tank’s location, you will have lower pressure. Conversely, the lower your home is located downhill from the tank, the higher the pressure.
Low Water Pressure
Low water pressure at one faucet? A clogged aerator on a faucet can slow the flow. Remove the aerator from the faucet, clean it, and put back on.
Low water pressure only with hot water? Consult with a plumber.
Low water pressure throughout the house?
Products like water softeners or filters may reduce water pressure if recently added or needs to be serviced. A water leak in plumbing can also affect pressure.
If you have a pressure reducing valve (PRV) installed to protect your plumbing, it may need adjusting. Most PRVs are installed after the water meter or before the water heater. Talk to a plumber before adjusting it.
If your water pressure suddenly drops to almost nothing ... it is could be a result of a broken water line.
High Water Pressure
If your home is in a geographically low point or near a water pumping station, you may experience water pressure higher than 80 psi. Sustained pressure that exceeds 80 psi can damage on-site plumbing systems and may affect your water fixtures. Unfortunately, the Acton Water District can’t alleviate high water pressure, but you may consider having a licensed plumber install a pressure-reducing valve at your home.
Massacusetts plumbing codes require pressure-reducing valves (PRVs) to be installed on new or remodeled residential plumbing where water pressure exceeds 80 psi.
A PRV reduces the water pressure coming into your home, if needed, to protect your plumbing much the same way that a surge protector protects your computer or television. A licensed plumber can assess your current plumbing system and recommend whether a PRV is needed for your home.
Do you already have a pressure reducing valve?
Have a look at the pictures below to help identify a pressure reducing valve in your home.
The picture above shows the pressure reducer location relative to the water meter and the picture below shows a closer look at a pressure reducing valve.
