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Low water pressure can be a frustrating issue for homeowners, affecting everything from showers to dishwashers. Installing a water pressure booster can significantly improve your home’s water flow. This Old House plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey demonstrates how to install a pressure booster system to increase water pressure from 35 pounds per square inch (psi) to about 50 psi.
How Water Pressure Boosters Work
Water pressure boosters operate by pumping water into a tank that’s partially filled with air. As the tank fills with water, it compresses the air, creating pressure. When you turn on a faucet, the pressurized water flows out, providing stronger water flow. The pump activates when the pressure in the tank drops below a certain level, ensuring a constant supply of pressurized water.
Installing a water pressure booster can provide several advantages for your home:
- Improved shower performance
- More efficient appliances, such as dishwashers and washing machines
- Better water flow for outdoor tasks like watering the garden
- Consistent water pressure throughout the house
- Enhanced overall water usage experience
A pressure booster ensures you have a constant, reliable water supply.
Tools and Materials Needed To Install a Water Pressure Booster
To install a water pressure booster, you’ll need the following:
- Pressure booster system
- Copper pipes and fittings
- Pliers
- Tubing cutter
- Propane torch
- Emery cloth
- Flux and solder
- Pressure gauges
- Check valve
- Pipe wrench
- Teflon tape
- Mounting brackets
- Electrical connectors
- Armored cable
Safety Precautions When Working With a Water Pressure Booster
Always turn off the main water valve before beginning any work on your plumbing system. Ensure you wear protective gear, such as gloves and safety goggles, to avoid injuries. Electrical connections should be handled by a licensed electrician to ensure compliance with local codes and safety standards.
Water Pressure Booster Installation Process
Installing a water pressure booster requires several steps, from preparing the water supply line to making the final connections. Trethewey walks through the process, providing valuable insights for homeowners.
Preparing the Water Supply Line
- Turn off the main water valve at the meter.
- Clean the water supply pipe coming into the house using emery cloth.
- Use a tubing cutter to cut into the water supply pipe at the appropriate location for the booster installation.
- Measure and mark the pipe for precise cuts and connections.
Properly preparing the line ensures a seamless booster system integration.
Positioning the Pressure Booster System
Place the pressure booster system in its intended location, ensuring it’s level and stable. The system should be installed in an area that’s easily accessible for maintenance and protected from extreme temperatures. You can use mounting brackets to secure the system firmly in place.
Connecting the Booster to Existing Plumbing
- Cut and assemble copper pipes and fittings to connect the booster to the existing water supply pipe.
- Disassemble the copper pipes and fittings, then clean each part with an emery cloth.
- Apply flux to each connection.
- Solder the parts together using a propane torch.
- Use Teflon tape on threaded connections to ensure a watertight seal.
- Tighten all connections with a pipe wrench.
Connecting the booster to your plumbing requires precision and attention to detail to ensure leak-free, durable connections.
Installing Check Valves and Pressure Gauges
Install a check valve on the inlet side of the booster to prevent high-pressure water from flowing back into the main supply line. Add pressure gauges on both the inlet and outlet sides of the booster to monitor water pressure before and after the system. These gauges help you track the system’s performance and make necessary adjustments.
Electrical Connections
For the electrical connections, we strongly recommend hiring a licensed electrician. The booster’s pump requires a dedicated circuit breaker for safe and efficient operation. The electrician will safely handle the following:
- Run an armored cable from the electrical panel to the booster pump.
- Connect the wires to the pump, including the ground wire.
- Install a new circuit breaker in the electrical panel.
- Ensure all connections are secure and compliant with local electrical codes.
Testing and Adjusting the Booster System
Once the installation is complete, test the system and make any necessary adjustments.
Initial System Test
- Open the main water valve slowly.
- Wait for the pump to activate, which may take a few seconds.
- Observe the pressure gauges as the system builds pressure.
- Ensure there are no unusual sounds or issues during the initial run.
Fine-Tuning the Pressure Settings
The pressure booster should shut off when it reaches about 60 psi. If needed, adjust the pressure switch on the pump to achieve the desired pressure range for your home. Making these adjustments ensures the system operates within optimal parameters for your household needs.
Checking for Leaks
After the system has been running for a short time, carefully inspect all connections for any signs of leaks. Tighten fittings or resolder joints if necessary. Addressing leaks promptly prevents potential water damage and ensures the system’s longevity.
Maintenance and Troubleshooting a Water Pressure Booster
Regular maintenance can help ensure your water pressure booster continues to function effectively for years to come.
- Check pressure gauges monthly to ensure consistent performance.
- Inspect connections for leaks every few months.
- Clean or replace the system’s filters according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.
- Lubricate the pump if required by the manufacturer.
- Test the pressure switch periodically to ensure proper function.
Regular maintenance helps catch potential issues early and keeps the system running smoothly.
Common Issues and Solutions
If you experience problems with your water pressure booster, consider these potential solutions:
- Fluctuating pressure: Check the pressure switch and adjust if necessary.
- Pump runs constantly: Inspect for leaks in your plumbing system.
- Strange noises: Air may be trapped in the system. Try bleeding the air out of the lines.
- Reduced water pressure: Clean or replace filters and check for blockages in the system.
- Electrical issues: Ensure connections are secure and consult a licensed electrician if problems persist.