Water Pressure Measurement – Easy DIY Methods & Solutions

Water pressure plays a crucial role in household plumbing, affecting everything from shower performance to appliance efficiency. Whether you're experiencing low pressure or just want to check if your home's water pressure meets UK standards, measuring it is straightforward.

What is Water Pressure?

Water pressure is the force that pushes water through your pipes, measured in bars or psi (pounds per square inch).

• Standard UK water pressure: Around 2-3 bar (30-45 psi).
• Low pressure: Below 1 bar (14.5 psi), often causing weak flow.
• High pressure: Above 5 bar (72.5 psi), which may damage pipes and appliances.

Methods to Measure Water Pressure

1. Using a Pressure Gauge (Most Accurate Method)

A water pressure gauge is the most reliable way to measure water pressure.

Steps:

1. Turn off all water-using appliances (taps, washing machines, showers).
2. Attach the gauge to an outdoor tap or the cold kitchen tap (as it's usually mains-fed).
3. Turn the tap fully on and read the pressure gauge.
4. The reading will display the water pressure in bar or psi.

➡️ Where to buy a pressure gauge? DIY stores like B&Q, Screwfix, or Toolstation sell them for around £10-£20.

2. The Bucket Test (Estimate Flow Rate, Not Pressure)

If you don’t have a gauge, the bucket test helps estimate flow rate, which correlates with pressure.

Steps:

1. Get a 10-litre bucket.
2. Place it under your kitchen tap or outdoor hose.
3. Turn the tap fully on and time how long it takes to fill the bucket.
4. Use the following guide:

• 10 seconds or less = Good pressure (~3 bar).
• 10-20 seconds = Moderate pressure (~2 bar).
• More than 20 seconds = Low pressure (~1 bar or below).

✅ Note: This test measures flow rate, not pressure, but it’s a quick indicator of potential issues.

3. Checking with Your Water Supplier

If you suspect pressure issues, contact your local water supplier. Most provide online pressure maps or can send an engineer to check your supply pressure.

• Thames Water: Check pressure reports
• Severn Trent Water: Report issues
• United Utilities: Pressure checks

What to Do If Your Water Pressure is Too Low or Too High

Low Water Pressure?

✔️ Check for leaks in pipes and taps.
✔️ Ensure stopcock is fully open (main control valve).
✔️ Clean blocked aerators in taps and showerheads.
✔️ Ask neighbours—if they have the same issue, it may be a supply problem.

➡️ Solution: Install a booster pump if low pressure is a persistent issue.

High Water Pressure?

✔️ Look for banging pipes (water hammer).
✔️ Check if appliances have pressure-limiting valves.
✔️ Install a pressure-reducing valve (PRV) to protect pipes.

➡️ Solution: A PRV can regulate pressure to a safe level.

How Fraser Bond Can Assist

If you're investing in property or renovating a home, ensuring the right water pressure is essential. Fraser Bond can: