If you live in a particularly rural area but are still served by the municipal water supply, you may be concerned about the low water pressure. What could be causing this problem, and what should you do?
Start From the Beginning
To begin with, you need to ascertain the extent of the problem and rule out a simple fix.
Fixture-Specific
Does the problem affect your entire home, or does it seem to be related to one fixture or tap? If it seems to be just one fixture, then you may be able to clear the problem by cleaning the taps. You can use vinegar or some other chemical to get rid of the scale, which has probably built up within the part. You may have to soak the valve overnight instead and should then replace any washers and gaskets before reassembly.
Pipe Issues
If a problem seems to affect the entire property, it could be to do with galvanised pipes. They may have corroded over time, and this may be restricting the water flow. In this case, you will probably have to replace the pipes with new ones made from a more up-to-date and resistant material.
Asking Around
Have a word with your neighbours to see if they have been affected by the problem and find out what they did to resolve it. If they seem okay, it does not mean that you should be free and clear, however, as the pressure can indeed vary from one property to the next.
Adjusting the Regulator
Have a look near your meter to see if you can find the water pressure regulator. You may be able to adjust this, but be careful. Do some research first to determine the recommended pressure and make minor adjustments to see if this makes any difference.
Boosting Pump
If this does not appear to work, then you can always introduce a boosting pump. Many different versions are available, but the best ones have an intelligent controller that can provide you with adequate, pressurised water without too much energy. You can tailor the model to your maximum required flow (litres per minute), as well as the ideal pressure figure.
Installing the Pump
However, talk with a local plumber about pump installation, as this is not a job that you should tackle yourself. They may have experience working with property owners in your area and know exactly what to expect. If you need a water pump, talk to a plumber about your options, such as a Davey or Lowara pump.
