To increase water pressure outside your tap, you'll likely need to adjust your water pressure regulator.
Here's a breakdown of how to approach this:
Understanding Your Water Pressure Regulator
Your water pressure regulator controls the amount of pressure coming into your home. It's typically located where the main water line enters your property. This device is crucial for preventing damage caused by excessively high water pressure.
How to Adjust Your Water Pressure Regulator
- Locate the Regulator: Find the water pressure regulator on your incoming water line.
- Identify the Adjustment Screw: Look for a main adjustment screw on the regulator.
- Increase Pressure:
- Turn the adjustment screw clockwise to increase the water pressure. The reference states "Your regulator will have an adjustment screw that can be adjusted to increase pressure with a clockwise turn of the main screw."
- Small Adjustments: Make small adjustments and then check your water pressure at the tap. Avoid making large changes at once.
- Professional Help: The reference suggests, "It's usually a good idea to consult a plumber if you have to make a large adjustment to the water pressure coming into your home." If you need to make a significant increase in pressure, it's best to call a plumber.
Other Considerations:
- Check for Blockages: Before adjusting the regulator, ensure there are no blockages in your pipes or tap.
- Consider a Booster Pump: If adjusting the regulator doesn't work, or if your water pressure is consistently low, you might need a booster pump.
- Test: After making any adjustments, test the water pressure at various taps to check the results.
Important Note
Adjusting the water pressure regulator should be done carefully. Overly high water pressure can damage your pipes and fixtures, so it is crucial to make small adjustments and monitor the results. Seek advice from a plumbing professional if you're unsure.
