OTC Insights Team
Established in 1963, OTC Industrial Technologies is one of the largest industrial distributors & service providers in the United States. We're committed to seeing industrial operations advance through expert technical solutions & unmatched support using our years of experience.
What do you do when there is an issue of low water pressure?
Water pressure isn’t just a matter of comfort. Proper flow is important for irrigation systems, fire prevention, and ensuring all occupants of multi-story buildings have access to clean water. To keep operations running smoothly and water systems ready in case of an emergency, it is important to investigate water pressure issues as soon as possible.
There are many possible causes of pressure issues, from local geography to malfunctioning water and wastewater pumps.
Water pressure problems in a building
If complaints are few and far between, the problem might be localized to individual buildings. These issues are often the responsibility of the building owners to address. They should contact a plumber to look for common causes like:
- Running fixtures, burst pipes, or in-building leaks.
- The building’s water pressure regulator needs adjusting.
- Leaks in the supply line between the building and the water main.
Water pressure problems in a city or neighborhood
If complaints are widespread, part of your water delivery system might need repaired, replaced, or augmented. Here are issues that could be causing low pressure in your system:
Problem: Increased demand
Every time someone uses their water, it is diverted from the main flow. If demand has significantly increased for any reason, like population growth or economic development, pressure will be affected.
Solution: Increase flow volume during peak hours. If this isn’t possible with your current system, it may be time for an upgrade.
Problem: Elevation and/or distance
Geography plays a large part in how different areas experience water pressure. Populations that are uphill or far from the water source or that are occupying multi-story buildings are fighting the effects of friction and gravity to get their water.
Solution: Place water booster pumps where needed along the distribution chain.
Problem: Pump malfunction
It is inevitable parts will wear out over time. These vital pieces of equipment should be checked and maintained regularly.
Solution: Save time and cost by spotting problem components and replacing or repairing them promptly. Read on to learn more about municipal pumps and common problems that can occur.
What is the purpose of a water pump and a water booster pump?
These pumps are designed to increase water pressure in freshwater distribution systems. Water booster pumps consist of a motor, impeller, inlet, outlet, and pressure or flow sensing device.
Collections of pumps are often operated together at a pump station to provide consistent pressure and adequate flow to a municipality. When something goes wrong with this important equipment, many businesses and residents in your community can be affected.
What can go wrong with water booster pumps?
Impeller deterioration is the most common cause of reduced pump efficiency. Several factors cause deterioration and can force replacement in as little as two years. Recognize and address these issues to extend the life of your pumps:
- Poor maintenance.
A complete maintenance plan should include:
- Monitoring the various conditions of the pump and motor - flow rate, pressure, motor amperage, and kWH usage
- Regular inspection for deterioration, leaks, and abnormal sounds
- Bearing lubrication
- Seal replacement
- Packing replacement
- Abrasive wear caused by debris in the water.
This is more common with wastewater pumps, but can also occur in freshwater systems, especially around construction sites. Make sure to check strainers regularly or install strainers to minimize the damage done by abrasives in the water.
- Chemical reactions that cause corrosion.
How your water is treated can affect impeller life span. For example, sodium hypochlorite is more corrosive on water systems than chlorine gas.
- Demand is too low.
Demand can drop low enough to not adequately circulate the water, causing pressure and temperature issues. At night, usage can drop to near zero with only the occasional toilet flush.
Solutions may include; collecting system operation data over time (flow and pressure), or an engineered solution such as a new control method that matches operational needs. Additionally, installing a jockey pump that operates when the demand is low may also help.
As you can see, it is important to have pumps that are well maintained and properly calibrated to your usage in order to optimize efficiency and extend their service life.
Get in touch with pump experts at OTC
As the experts in industrial pumps, OTC can help you set up a pumping system and maintenance plan based on your specific needs.
Contact us to learn more or set up an appointment to talk to our experts about installing and optimizing your pumps. OTC Industrial Technologies is here to help with premier product lines, innovative solutions, and unparalleled technical expertise. Reach out to our team today!