DIY Network

Low Water Pressure: Completing the Installation Low Water Pressure: Completing the Installation From "Ed the Plumber" episode DETP-203

Ed now reveals how to install a by-pass system to complete the installation.

Materials:

Pressure gauge
Check valve
Pressure relief valve
3 Ball valves
Electrical wire and nut
Phillips head screwdriver
Soldering kit
Tire gauge
Pressure booster system
Manufacturers instructions

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	Figure A
	Figure B
	Figure C
	Figure D
	Figure E
	Figure F

1. Construct a by-pass system (figure A) for the intake line. This will allow water to by-pass the unit if the need should arise.

2. Solder the by-pass system into place. Make sure all valves are open to prevent heat from building up.

3. Wait to connect the by-pass to the house until the check valve has been installed.

   Tip: a check valve prevents water from flowing backward into the unit allowing the water pressure to build.

4. Solder the adapters to the valve before attaching.

5. Solder the male adapter 'T' (figure B) that holds the pressure relief valve, then connect the discharge line to the house feed.

6. Next, connect the intake line to the check valve.

7. Install the pressure relief valve (figure C).

8. Then install the pressure gauge onto the threaded fitting (figure D) on the unit.

9. Shut off the ball valves.

10. Turn on the outside spigot, then turn on the water at the main.

11. Check all pipe connections for leaks.

12. Open the by-pass valve, then turn on the faucet at the highest point in the house to purge the air from the water lines.

13. Shut down the by-pass, then open the service valve to let water flow into and out of the unit.

14. Open the access cover on the unit to thread the electrical wires into the pressure switch.

15. Next, connect the two black wires together (figure E), then secure with a wire nut and electrical tape.

16. Bring the ground wire to the pressure switch, then tighten down under the green ground screw.

17. Connect the white wire to the appropriate lug on the pressure switch, then tighten.

18. Replace the cover.

19. Plug the unit in, then turn the switch to the 'On' position.

20. If the system doesn't kick on, the pressure is too low. Manually override the switch for 10 seconds to get the pressure to the proper range (figure F).

21. Finally, allow the unit to run through a cycle.