How to Create a Low Pressure in Your House

Water pressure refers to the strength of water as it flows through your pipes. Residential water pressure meters are typically adjusted to 50 psi. Some people prefer a reduced, or low, water pressure. Lower pressure helps protect pipes and offers a way to save on water consumption and ultimately reduces water bills. People without plumbing experience may call a professional to adjust their water pressure. However, you can adjust your own water pressure and control the flow of water through your pipes.

Pliers

Instructions

- 1
  Turn on a faucet inside your home and allow a small flow of water.
- 2
  Find the main water line to your house, which is where water enters your house. The location is either on your front or back exterior faucet. Locate the pressure reducer or regulator, which is a bell-shaped device with an attached stem near the water line's valve.
- 3
  Release the locknut located at the bottom of the pressure reducer stem by turning the nut with pliers.
- 4
  Place the pliers around the tip of the pressure reducer stem, and turn the reducer counterclockwise several times to lower the water pressure in your house. Turning the pressure reducer clockwise increases the water pressure.
- 5
  Monitor the gauge on the pressure reducer to assess the drop in water pressure to your house. Continue adjusting the pressure reducer until you reach the desired pressure level -- perhaps 40 or 50 pounds.
- 6
  Use pliers to secure the locknut back to it's original position.
- 7
  Check the faucet in your house to assess the water pressure after a few turns of the pressure reducer. If you haven't achieved the desired strength, return to the reducer and adjust the pressure as needed.

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