UK Water Pressure Standards

Understanding what your water pressure readings mean according to UK regulations

Below 1 bar (14.5 psi)

Below Legal Minimum

Contact your water supplier immediately - this is below the legal requirement

1-2 bars (14.5-30 psi)

Legal but Low

May cause issues with appliances and poor shower performance

2-4 bars (30-60 psi)

Normal Range

Optimal for most appliances and daily use in UK homes

4-6 bars (60-87 psi)

Higher Than Typical

Usually acceptable but monitor for any issues

Above 6 bars (87 psi)

Very High

May damage appliances and waste water - consider pressure reducing valve

How to Test Your Water Pressure at Home

Follow our guide to accurately measure your home's water pressure using UK standards.

Equipment You'll Need

Water Pressure Gauge

Available at B&Q, Screwfix, or Wickes

£10-25

Access Point

Outside tap or washing machine connection

Existing

Timer

Stopwatch for flow rate testing

Free (phone app)

Measuring Container

1-litre jug or measuring bucket

£3-8

Step-by-Step Testing Process

1

Prepare Your Home

Turn off all water sources in your home including taps, dishwashers, washing machines, and any toilets that might be refilling. Wait 5 minutes for the system to stabilize.

2

Select Testing Location

Use an outside tap closest to your water meter for the most accurate reading. Alternatively, use the cold water connection behind your washing machine.

3

Connect Pressure Gauge

Carefully screw the pressure gauge onto the tap or connection point. Ensure a secure fit but avoid over-tightening which could damage the threads.

4

Take Pressure Reading

Slowly open the water source and observe the gauge. The reading will stabilize within 10-15 seconds, showing your static water pressure.

5

Record Multiple Readings

Document your readings and test at different times of day. Peak times (7-9 AM, 6-8 PM) often show lower pressure due to neighbourhood demand.

6

Optional Flow Rate Test

Remove the gauge and time how long it takes to fill a 1-litre container. Good flow rate: 4-6 seconds per litre (10-15 litres/minute).

Upload Your Test Results

Share your water pressure measurements to receive personalized analysis and recommendations based on UK standards.

Property Information

Pressure Measurements

UK standard uses bar, but PSI is also accepted
Normal UK range: 2-4 bars (30-60 psi)
Good flow rate: 4-6 seconds per litre (10-15 litres/minute)

Test Conditions