How to Replace a Water Pressure Gauge
Water pressure gauges enable the user to identify any possible problems with the water system. Fluctuations in water delivery can be observed by an accurately operational gauge. Over time, these gauges can fail. Typically an internal leak occurs and the indicating mechanism will no longer register a correct reading. With the use of a crescent wrench and some Teflon tape, a water pressure gauge can be replaced in a few minutes. In some cases though, the entire water system may have to be shut off and possibly drained. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- Crescent wrench
- Small valve (optional)
- New pressure gauge
- Pipe thread sealant tape
Instructions
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1
Close the small water valve just below the old pressure gauge. In the case where your system does not have a small valve, you may have to close the main incoming water valve for the cold water supply. Use the crescent wrench and place it just below the gauge itself on the square metal neck of the device.
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2
Turn the wrench and the gauge in a counterclockwise direction. Finish removing the gauge from the female pipe fitting with your hands once the gauge is loose enough to do so. Some water will emit from the connection; take your time with the old gauge removal.
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3
Apply a few rounds of the pipe thread sealant tape to the male threads on the new pressure gauge and the new small valve if applicable. The pipe thread sealant tape will aid in sealing the threads against leaks. Start the small valve into the threads of the plumbing pipe in a clockwise direction. Take you time and begin the threads by hand. Finish tightening the new valve with the crescent wrench.
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4
Start the threads of the new pressure gauge as you did the new valve, if you did indeed install a new gauge valve. Begin the threads by hand to ensure you do not cross the threads. Finish tightening the gauge with the crescent wrench.
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5
Open the main cold-water valve or the small pressure gauge valve. The gauge should now be indicating the water system pressure.
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Tips & Warnings
The pressure gauge must be able to read pressures up to 150 PSI. Lower reading gauges may become prematurely damaged by water pressure surges that can occur in all water systems.
