If you rely on a well system for your home’s water supply, consistent water pressure is essential for both comfort and efficiency. Low water pressure can make daily tasks like showering, running appliances, or watering your lawn frustrating, and it can also put unnecessary strain on your appliances. Unlike city water, which typically delivers steady pressure, well systems are more prone to fluctuations, making it important to know how to increase water pressure from a well when problems arise.
The good news is that most well water pressure issues have clear, fixable causes. Some solutions are as simple as cleaning a clogged faucet aerator, while others may involve adjusting the pressure switch or upgrading your pump system for long-term improvement. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to increase water pressure from a well with both quick, do-it-yourself methods and professional upgrades so you can restore strong, reliable water flow throughout your home.
Why Your Well Water Pressure May Be Low
Low water pressure in a well system can result from several issues, and the right fix starts with identifying the true cause. Common culprits include mineral buildup inside faucet aerators, showerheads, and pipes from hard water deposits, incorrect pressure switch settings that are too low from the factory or past adjustments, and an aging or undersized well pump that can’t push water at the desired pressure.
Other causes may involve a waterlogged pressure tank that fails to maintain proper air pressure, sediment buildup from the well itself, plumbing leaks that cause pressure drops, or seasonal factors like drought affecting the water table. Before making any adjustments, check multiple faucets to determine whether the problem is isolated or affects the entire home. This can help you narrow down whether the issue is with the plumbing, fixtures, or the well system itself.
Step-by-Step Solutions to Increase Well Water Pressure
Below are nine effective strategies to restore or improve your water pressure. We’ll start with the easiest, most cost-effective fixes before moving on to more advanced upgrades.
1. Clean Faucets and Showerheads
Mineral deposits from hard water are a common reason for reduced water flow. Over time, these deposits can clog faucet aerators and showerhead nozzles, forcing your well pump to push water through smaller openings.
To fix this, unscrew the aerator from your faucet or the head from your shower arm. Soak the parts in white vinegar for a few hours to dissolve mineral buildup, then rinse and reattach. For stubborn clogs, use a soft brush or toothpick to remove debris. This is a quick, no-cost fix that can make a noticeable difference, especially if only certain fixtures have low water pressure.
2. Adjust Your Well Pump Pressure Switch
The pressure switch is the control device that tells your pump when to start (cut-in) and stop (cut-out). Most residential well systems are set at 30/50 psi or 40/60 psi, meaning the pump starts when pressure drops to the lower number and stops when it reaches the higher number. Most systems come with a default setting, but adjusting the pressure switch from this default can help increase water pressure.
If your settings are too low, you can adjust the pressure to increase it. Adjusting the pressure switch involves careful adjustment of the activation (cut-in) and cut-off points. This adjustment should be done with caution, as proper adjustment is important for system safety and performance. Always turn off the power at the circuit breaker before making adjustments. Increase the cut-in and cut-out pressures evenly to maintain a 20 psi spread between the two. Avoid going above 70 psi, as it can strain your pump and plumbing.
3. Check and Maintain the Pressure Tank
Your pressure tanks store water and use compressed air to maintain a consistent flow between pump cycles. A failing or waterlogged tank can’t maintain the right air pressure, leading to frequent pump starts and reduced flow. Regular maintenance of these tanks is essential to prevent issues that can affect your water system’s performance.
To check your tank, turn off the pump and drain water until it’s empty. Then, use a tire pressure gauge on the air valve at the top of the tank. For a system set at 40/60 psi, your tank’s pre-charge should be around 38 psi. Proper adjustment of the tank’s settings is crucial for maintaining optimal water pressure in your home. If the air pressure is low, add air using an air compressor. If water comes out of the air valve, the bladder may be ruptured, and the tank will need replacement.
4. Flush Your Plumbing System
Sediment and debris can collect in your plumbing lines and piping, particularly if your well draws from a source with high mineral content. This buildup can restrict water flow and reduce pressure.
To flush your system, turn off your water heater to prevent damage, then open the furthest faucet from your well to allow water to run until it flows clear. This process can help remove buildup and restore normal flow rates. In some cases, a professional flush of the well itself may be necessary.
5. Install a Booster Pump
If your well pump is functioning correctly but you still want higher water pressure, especially during peak household usage, a booster pump can help. Booster pumps are designed to help achieve higher pressures in the home. The main function of a booster pump is to increase the pressure in your water system, ensuring more water reaches your fixtures, especially during times of high demand. This device works alongside your existing pump to increase water flow into your home.
Booster pumps are especially useful in multi-story homes, where gravity can lower water pressure on upper floors. Professional installation is recommended to ensure proper sizing and integration into your existing water system.
6. Upgrade to a Constant Pressure System
Unlike traditional systems that allow pressure to drop before starting the pump, a constant pressure system uses a variable-speed pump to maintain steady PSI even during high demand. This prevents noticeable pressure drops when multiple fixtures are in use. Constant-pressure systems are ideal for households that require higher pressure during periods of simultaneous water use.
While this is a more expensive upgrade, it provides a noticeable improvement in water flow and reduces wear on the pump. Many homeowners find the consistent shower experience alone worth the investment.
7. Replace or Upgrade Your Well Pump
If your current pump is undersized or over 10–15 years old, it may not have the capacity to meet your home’s water needs. There are various types and capacities of well pumps available, and replacing your old pump with a higher-capacity submersible pump or a newer, more efficient model can provide more pressure and improve your overall water supply. When the pressure switch detects the desired pressure, the pump stops automatically to maintain system balance.
When choosing a replacement, consider your home’s size, number of bathrooms, and peak water usage. A professional well services provider can help calculate the right pump capacity, assist with replacing your pump, and ensure proper installation and system upgrades.
8. Install or Maintain a Water Softener
Hard water is more than just a nuisance, as it can reduce water flow by coating pipes and fixtures with mineral deposits. Installing a water softener can prevent this buildup, helping maintain optimal water pressure over time.
If you already have a softener, check the settings and make sure it’s regenerating as scheduled. A clogged resin bed can reduce performance and flow.
9. Call a Professional for Complex Issues
Some well pressure problems go beyond basic DIY solutions. Issues like a damaged well casing, severe sediment intrusion, or pump motor failure require professional diagnosis and repair. A licensed well contractor can measure your water pressure and flow rate to accurately diagnose the issue. They may also check or install a pressure regulator to ensure optimal water pressure. Additionally, a professional can perform water quality testing, inspect your well pipe, and evaluate your entire well system for hidden problems.
Preventing Future Low Water Pressure Issues
Prevention is the best way to avoid repeated pressure drops.
- Annual water testing can help identify mineral or sediment issues before they cause major restrictions.
- Pressure tank and well tank checks every 6 months ensure your air pressure stays at the desired setting and that the well tank is functioning properly.
- Cleaning aerators and showerheads quarterly keeps fixtures running at full flow.
By following these steps, you can protect your pump’s ability to deliver enough water at your preferred set points year-round.
Cost Comparison: DIY vs. Professional Solutions
| Solution | DIY Cost Range | Professional Cost Range |
|---|---|---|
| Clean faucets/showerheads | $0–$20 | $50–$100 |
| Adjust pressure switch | $0–$50 | $100–$200 |
| Pressure tank maintenance | $0–$30 | $150–$350 |
| Flush plumbing system | $0–$50 | $150–$300 |
| Install booster pump | N/A | $500–$1,200 |
| Constant pressure system | N/A | $2,000–$5,000 |
| Replace well pump | N/A | $1,500–$3,000 |
| Install water softener | $400–$800 | $1,000–$2,500 |
Note: Water pressure is typically measured in psi, which stands for pounds per square inch, the standard unit for measuring water pressure in well systems.
Safe PSI Ranges for Well Systems
According to licensed well contractors, most homes perform best between 40/60 psi and 50/70 psi. Increasing PSI beyond 70 can risk damaging plumbing fixtures and shortening pump lifespan. Always ensure adjustments are made evenly to maintain the proper pressure set point and avoid excessive strain on your system.
Conclusion
Low water pressure in a well system can stem from simple issues like clogged aerators or more complex problems such as a failing pump or pressure tank. By identifying the cause and applying the right fix, you can restore strong, consistent water flow throughout your home. Regular maintenance, proper pressure settings, and timely upgrades not only improve daily comfort but also protect the long-term performance of your well system.
At Housatonic Valley Well Pump, our licensed technicians are ready to help if you’re dealing with low water pressure, air in your faucets, cloudy water, or any signs of well pump failure. We’ll carefully inspect your system, identify the cause, and provide the right repair or replacement to restore clean, reliable water to your home. Contact us today for trusted well pump service and long-lasting solutions.
FAQs
What causes low water pressure if you have a well?
Low water pressure can be caused by clogged faucet aerators, sediment buildup in pipes, incorrect pressure switch settings, a failing pressure tank, or an undersized well pump. Seasonal water table changes and leaks in the plumbing can also cause pressure drops.
What is the normal water pressure for a well?
Most residential well systems are set to operate between 40 and 60 psi. Some systems use a 50/70 psi range for higher flow needs, but going above 70 psi is not recommended for safety and longevity.
Can I put a booster pump on my well?
Yes, a booster pump can be added to increase pressure in homes where the existing well pump can’t keep up with demand. This is especially useful for multi-story homes or homes with high simultaneous water usage.
Will a bigger pressure tank increase water pressure in a well pump?
No, a larger pressure tank won’t directly increase water pressure. It may reduce pump cycling, which can help maintain more consistent pressure, but actual pressure levels are controlled by your pump and pressure switch settings.