Low Pressure

[djosephs]

I have a multiunit w/ six 1 bdrm apts. I have had complaints over the few years we owned it about low water pressure and hot water running out. I had a pump replaced when it broke and the tenants seemed to think that the problem was solved but a couple months later I got more complaints. The pressure reads (gauge is on line after pump) 60 or 70 psi.

The building has 3 floors and 6 bathrooms. The original hot water heat is a gas steam boiler that I added an 80 gallon electric hwh. In other words the hot water from the steam system enters the 80 gal heater which goes on when necessary. I didn't notice any dramatic change in electric so I don't think it goes on that much.

I think the problem is that 4-6 people may be showering at the same time. I think the work/shower patterns change over time and that is why the problem is sporadic.

There is a holding tank about 4 feet high, after the pump that is supposed to do something?

Can you please offer some solutions to my problem? Would it help to isolate a couple of apts hot water lines and put in a hwh for those 2 apts?

Thank you

[majakdragon]

The water efficient shower heads are "supposed" to limit water to 2 1/2 gallons per minute. But think of 2 tenants taking 10 minute showers and you have 50 gallons right there. Think you have the right idea about isolating 2 apts and installing another water heater. As far as pressure, have you checked the aerators on the sinks and also the shower heads? They may be getting plugged and restricting flow. Just a thought. Good luck.

[djosephs]

The pressure is good during the day but very bad in the morning when so many are showering at once.

[majakdragon]

May be a volume problem then. Have you ever looked at the pressure gauge in the peak times (morning)?

[djosephs]

No I haven't looked at the gauge at peak times. What should it read? How can I fix a volume problem?
Thanks