How to Fix Low Water Pressure in a Commercial Building

Good water pressure is something many of us take for granted, and we only realise how important it is when we experience low pressure. 

Water pressure is a critical factor for many commercial buildings, and it often needs to be high in order to meet the demands of everyone using it; but, what do you do if your commercial building is suffering from low water pressure?

What causes low water pressure in a commercial building?

There are a number of reasons why you may be experiencing low water pressure in a commercial building:

Clogged pipes 

Blocked and clogged pipes are one of the most common causes of low water pressure. A number of different people use plumbing facilities in commercial buildings, which can result in things being flushed down drains and toilets that shouldn’t be. This can very easily cause pipes to become clogged and affect the water pressure. 

Leaking pipes 

If your water pipes are damaged, this can cause leaks and will in turn, cause low water pressure. If you think you have leaking pipes, an easy way to identify this is by closing your main water valve and taking a reading of the metre. Leave the valve closed for a few hours if possible. If your reading has increased, this is a sign your pipes may have a leak. 

Old or damaged pipes 

If your commercial property is old, then the likelihood that the plumbing system is also old is quite high. In some cases, the old pipes may have started to corrode and will need to be replaced. 

Can you increase the water pressure in a commercial building?

Yes, there are a few things you can do to help increase the flow of water in your commercial building. 

There are some things you can do yourself, as well as other things that may require the help of specialist plumbers who have experience working on commercial plumbing, like the team at Lacey Plumbing & Heating.

How do you increase water pressure in a commercial building?

If you’re struggling with low water pressure in your commercial building, there are a few things you can do to restore your water flow:

Check for leaks 

One of the first things you should do is check for leaks in your visible pipes. Even the smallest of leaks can cause water pressure to drop, so it’s vital to check for leaks right away. 

If you find a leak, it’s important you get it repaired right away. If it is minor, you may be able to do it yourself; however, if it is large or you don’t feel comfortable fixing it yourself, you should hire a professional to fix it for you. Our guide on how to inspect your commercial plumbing may be of use too.

Clean your pipes 

Another thing you can do yourself is cleaning your pipes. Overtime, mineral deposits, waste and debris can build up in your pipes, which reduces the amount of water that can flow through them. 

Hard water is likely to be one of the main culprits for this, however, any commercial property can suffer from blocked pipes. You can use a pipe cleaning solution to remove these mineral deposits and improve your water pressure. Make sure you follow all of the instructions correctly, as using too much or too little can cause further issues. 

Check your water supply 

If you’re still having issues, the building’s actual water supply may be the issue. Low pressure can be a problem if your business is busy and uses more water than what the building can handle.

If this is the case, you may need to upgrade your water supply, such as adding extra water storage tanks or pumps for an additional water source. 

If you think this is the case, you will need to contact specialist commercial plumbing experts who have experience fixing water pressure in commercial buildings. 

At Lacey Plumbing & Heating, we understand the importance of having efficient water pressure, and our plumbing experts are always available to help resolve any plumbing issues you may be experiencing, including low water pressure.

What is the normal water pressure for a commercial building?

Most commercial buildings require a water pressure measurement of around 40-60 psi (pounds per square inch) to ensure a constant and proper flow of water. 

Most water companies will aim to provide at least 10 metres head at the end of their communication pipe, which is where the water leaves the water suppliers pipework and enters yours. 

How to measure water pressure

Before you measure your water pressure, there are a few pieces of equipment you will need, including a minimum of 1-litre jug, a timer and a calculator. 

Start by placing the jug under a tap, and turn the tap on full. Time how long it takes to fill the jug, and if it takes more than six seconds to fill the jug, then you have low water pressure. 

You can also check pressure gauges on boilers and taps to see if your water pressure is low. You can attach a pressure gauge onto an outside tap and turn the water on full blast. The indicator will tell you what the pressure is, and you should ideally have a water pressure of at least 40 psi. 

Why good water pressure in commercial buildings is important

Having good water pressure in your commercial building is vital, as it allows the use of multiple water sources to be used at the same time; something which commonly occurs in commercial properties. This is particularly important in commercial settings, such as schools and hospitals, which heavily rely on the constant use of water. 

Not only this, but having good water pressure also ensures your building is meeting hygiene and safety standards, which again is vital for many public and communal spaces.