How do Water Pressure Pumps Work?
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Water pressure pumps are responsible for increasing the pressure of water in your home, to enhance water flow rate. Some manufacturers label their pumps as a ‘booster pump’, and the devices come in all shapes and sizes.
Here, we explain how water pressure pumps work, what to look out for if you have low water pressure and when to call in the experts should you suspect there’s an issue with your pump.
Why would I need to install a water pressure pump?Whether it’s your shower, tap or the hosepipe in the garden, many of us have experienced slow running water in the past. While you might not give it much thought, it’s a tell-tale sign of low water pressure in your home. But don’t worry, there’s ways to improve your water pressure.
A booster pump can increase the water pressure across your home, from an individual tap boost to a complete inline mains booster pump for the whole home, there’s a booster pump available to solve any low water issues.
Water pressure pumps usually have the same 4 core components: motor, impellers, inlet and outlet, and a pressure or flow sensor. The impeller, powered by the motor, is responsible for moving the water in through the inlet and exit through the outlet to increase water pressure. The sensor monitors the outlet pressure and will signal the pump to adjust its speed to maintain a set level of pressure.
The pumps can be operated manually or by an on-demand system, all specifically designed to work in harmony.
If you have a water pressure pump installed in your home, having no running water or low water pressure are concrete signs that there’s an issue.
However, there are other problems that could arise and that are important to be aware of so you can catch the faults early on.
Sometimes the problem is just as simple as your valves only being partially open. Make sure the shutoff valves near your water meter are fully open. Once fully open, check your water pressure with a gauge.
If you don’t have a water pressure gauge, you can get an empty one-litre bottle or jug and time how long it takes to fill it with your tap. The ideal time is between 4 and 6 seconds, as this should mean that your flow rate is between 10 and 15 litres a minute. If it takes longer than six seconds to fill, you have low water flow rate, and there may be an issue.
Firstly, check the electrical power is turned on and is being delivered to the pump control switch and the pump itself.
If it’s not an electrical fault, check the water pressure gauge on the tank. If the pressure displayed on your gauge is lower than the cut-in pressure (the lowest pressure it can drop to before the pump should kick in), but the pump is not turning on, you are likely looking at a faulty or worn-down pressure switch or gauge.
If your water booster pump is making more noise than usual, it is likely that one or more bearing is worn.
A squeaking or clicking sound coming from the bearings is a warning sign that they are wearing and on the verge of breaking. Worn or noisy bearings should be replaced immediately to prevent further damage to any related components.
Another issue which could lead to noise is debris that’s been caught in the system, which will need clearing out.
It’s possible that the pipework attached to your pump has worn down and is causing your leak. In order for this leak to be fixed, the section of affected pipework will need replacing.
In some cases, the booster pump might need replacing entirely. In these circumstances, switch off your water supply and call our experts here at Metro Plumb.
As well as being fully trained in the maintenance and repair of pressure pumps, we also have bespoke packaged booster sets available. Where we can provide the design, supply and installation services of a new booster, if you’re building an extension or changing the use of your building.
Don’t hesitate to get in touch by calling our 24/7/365 helpline on 0808 250 9949.