Are you suffering from a plumbing system with low water pressure? Is it frustrating doing basic tasks? If so, follow along with this article to find out more about the potential solution for the issue.
To help you understand better what actually happened with the water pressure, let’s start with the definition of pressure drop. It is the loss of pressure caused by friction and other factors like changes in pipe direction or diameter when water flows through the pipes. Insufficient water pressure could result in performing specific tasks; that’s why it’s crucial to ensure the water system can deliver the required pressure and flow rate across all fixtures and equipment in the entire system.
You may wonder why using a PEX pipe could help improve the problem. We’ll explain in more detail how EFIELD PEX pipes from PlumbingSell increase water pressure.
Table of Contents
Consider the material of pipe
The material of the pipe used in a plumbing system impacts water pressure by influencing friction loss and durability under pressure. There are various types and materials of pipes available in the marketplace. PEX pipes are made of cross-linked polyethylene, which is considered a smooth material. Their smooth surfaces can help reduce friction and avoid pressure drops.PEX pipes are also flexible, so fewer fittings are required to maintain water pressure.
Compared with PEX pipes, PVC pipes also have a smooth interior, allowing minimal friction. However, exposing the pipe to UV light could degrade it, causing pressure loss. Although copper pipes are highly durable and can withstand high pressure, they have a smaller diameter than PEX or PVC pipes. Additionally, copper pipes require more fittings, which create more friction points that could potentially reduce water pressure.
However, there are variations in smoothness and surface roughness within the category of PEX pipes. PEX-A, PEX-B, and PEX-C, these three types of PEX pipes have different manufacturing processes and quality of materials. Choosing our high-quality material, EFIELD PEX pipes with a smoother interior surface helps reduce the possibility of pressure drops.
Increase PEX pipe diameter
Different types of pipes have an influence on water pressure, depending on various materials, internal diameter, etc. The diameter of the PEX pipe is considered one of the main factors that will affect the flow rate and cause pressure drop. Choosing the correct pipe size for your plumbing system will ensure the water flow at an appropriate rate. For the residential water systems, we recommend using a 3/4″ PEX pipe for balanced, flexible, and stable water flow.
Smaller PEX pipes restrict water volume and reduce flow at the fixture. Increasing the diameter of the pipe could help reduce friction loss and increase the water flow rate. A larger diameter pipe allows more water to pass through, and even with multiple fixtures, the water pressure can be maintained at a stable level. Usually, 1/2″ PEX pipes are best for single fixtures; 3/4″ PEX pipes and 1” PEX pipes are ideal for mainly supply lines to keep steady water pressure.
However, even though larger PEX pipes increase the water flow through the line, if the supply water doesn’t meet the necessary water pressure, it won’t be able to increase the entire rate in the system. If the water pressure exceeds too much on pipes, joints, and fittings, cracks and bursts could happen in the water system. More water flows will also cause loud banging sounds, also known as water hammer.
In conclusion, increasing the PEX pipe diameter can help improve water pressure. However, the PEX pipes must be large enough to withstand the water flow but not too much, as excessive water pressure could cause significant cracks in the pipes. By selecting the correct pipe size and minimizing friction losses, you can improve water pressure in your plumbing system.
Minimize pipe length and bends
The longer the pipe goes, the greater the pressure drop. To minimize pressure drop in a PEX pipe, keeping the length of the pipe as short as possible could be helpful. When designing the water system, it is essential to always consider the most direct route for reducing the length. In addition, direct routes avoid sharp bends or angles, which could maintain water pressure.
The primary reason for controlling PEX pipe length is when water moves through pipes, it experiences friction against the inner pipe walls that could cause pressure loss. The longer the pipe runs and the more bends the pipe has, the more friction happens, resulting in a drop in water pressure. By shortening the length of the pipe and reducing the number of bends, water could flow more easily with the pipe with less resistance, which helps maintain stable water pressure at the point of use.
For example, if a 1/2″ pex pipe has a significant loss in water pressure. Since the diameter is quite limited already, so the longer the pipe goes, the more the water flow could be affected by friction. For this kind of case, either consider increasing the diameter of the pipe to 3/4″ PEX pipe of greater 1” PEX pipe, or you could consider using gentle curves with PEX pipe fittings for support.
Limit the number of PEX fittings
Fittings can also cause turbulence in water flow, which can increase the potential water pressure drop. By minimizing the number of fittings in a plumbing system, pressure drop could be better controlled. However, fittings are also crucial in some instances, such as changes in direction and connection between pipes.
For PEX pipes, the commonly used fittings are inserted in ones. This means at each fitting, the internal diameter is reduced, so the flow will be interrupted, and water pressure could be affected. However, using specific types of PEX fittings could help in reducing sharp turns in pipes. The sharp turns force water to change direction quickly and create turbulence and pressure loss. Therefore, instead of sharp elbow fittings, try out some other types of fittings that have more gradual curves for a smooth flow will help increase and maintain the water pressure.
Depending on the type of fitting used, the internal diameter of a 3/4″ PEX pipe is reduced by 21% to 35%. Check out the price of EFIELD 3/4″ PEX pipe fittings here.
Replace aged pipes with new PEX pipes
The other possible reasons for low water pressure in your fixture can also be low-quality pipes or old and damaged pipes. Replacing old strained steel or copper pipes with more modern and durable options like PEX pipes. These are some of the best options for cost-effectiveness, easy installation, less maintenance requirement, and a smooth inner surface. For residential plumbing projects, we recommend using a 3/4″ PEX pipe. The diameter of the pipe can ensure steady water flow and improve water pressure. For DIY lovers, a simple pex pipe crimping tool can be used to help with your project.
Conclusion
In conclusion, using PEX pipes for increasing water pressure is a practical solution. However, various factors do need to be considered for each plumbing system. With smoother interior surfaces and flexibility, PEX pipes offer a significant advantage in reducing friction loss. This is helpful for maintaining a stable water pressure or even increasing water pressure. In addition to this, other factors like the length of pipes, fittings used on pipes, etc, also have an impact on water pressure. To optimize residential water flow, try out our EFIELD 3/4″ PEX pipes or 1” PEX pipes as a starting point.
