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View Full Version : Why is the standard water pressure pump cut off switch used a 30/50 psi?


Handyman2007
May 18, 2013, 04:42 PM
I have often wondered why the pressure switch used on rural pumps is always rated at 30/50 psi. I have found that water pressure to be a bit lacking at that. I always installed 40/60 switches and found that extra 10 psi makes a lot of difference . Thanks

mygirlsdad77
May 18, 2013, 05:03 PM
I don't think there is actually a standard on this subject. Im with you, we use only 40/60 pressure switches (and many customer have me raise the setting to 50/70). Most of our local suppliers only stock 40/60 switches. Around here city water pressure is usually between 55 and 70 psi, so why not expect the same pressures in the country/ private well setting? If I were to set a pressure switch cut-in down to 30 psi, most folks around here would find the nearest tree to hang me from, lol.

I mean, really? How many people in this day and age do you think would be content with 30psi of water pressure at any point during their time in the shower, etc. If you only had 30psi in the city, you would be begging for a booster pump, right? I know I would.

Lee.

Handyman2007
May 18, 2013, 07:05 PM
I actually have seen, in service, 20/40's !~!!
The owners complain about low water pressure. I cannot imagine why. It is usually after a large renovation has been done adding several more taps and the pressure talk is never upgraded or the switch changed. I have seen 5 bedroom, 3 bath homes with 28 gallon pressure tanks at 20 -40 psi!!

mygirlsdad77
May 18, 2013, 08:10 PM
I can only speak from my personal experience in my local area.

I can imagine different areas with different demands. In my area, there is no shortage of water. In many areas there is shortage of water, so I guess I could see the lower pressure switch ratings for water conservation. Just like many areas run off 40-45 psi city pressure, regulated by pressure reducing valves. This is certainly an interesting topic, and I do hope that others will pop in with their thoughts on this issue.

Have a good night Handyman2007.

Lee.