How to Increase Water Pressure and Troubleshoot Reverse Osmosis Tank Pressure?

In RO systems, water pressure directly affects the performance of water purification. The filtration speed, output volume, and efficiency of contaminant removal all depend on the water’s pressure. If pressure drops, everything slows down, from water flow to filter performance.

Low water pressure is one of the most common issues in underperforming RO setups. It leads to slower output, longer wait times, and sometimes no water at all. Here, we’ll cover how to increase water pressure and troubleshoot Reverse Osmosis tank pressure, so your RO system can do its job without wasting time or water.

Why Water Pressure Matters In an RO System?

The working of reverse osmosis helps you better understand why pressure is critical to work and perform accordingly. The pressure forces water to go through the semi-permeable membrane in RO systems. This separates clean water from the impurities and contaminants. If the pressure is not as expected, the process slows down or stops entirely.

Most RO membranes are tested and rated for 60–80 PSI (pounds per square inch). This range is necessary for proper rejection rates of contamination (typically 97.5% or higher) and to maintain a proper production flow. Anything below 40 PSI leads to a drop in system performance as a whole. 

Maintaining the right pressure protects membrane effectiveness, improves water quality, and keeps production at expected levels. Low pressure is one of the most common and easily fixable issues in underperforming RO systems. 

Here’s what you need to do: 

1. First, measure your pressure using a gauge at the system inlet. 
2. If it’s under 50 PSI, a booster pump is recommended. 
3. These pumps are built into advanced systems and can raise pressure to the needed range. 
4. Also, check the tank’s air pressure (should be 7–8 PSI when empty). 
5. If it’s too low, refill it with a bicycle pump and gauge. You can call a professional for maintenance.

Why This Happens?

When pressure is too low, the membrane cannot perform as designed. You’ll notice slow water flow, higher TDS levels, increased wastewater, and premature membrane fouling.

These symptoms are common in systems connected to private wells, where pressure often fluctuates between 20–50 PSI (well below the RO requirement!). We’ll cover more signs and fixes below!

Common Signs of Low Water Pressure in RO Systems

An underperforming RO system means that there is low water pressure. If you are still not clear, watch out for these signs when diagnosing a pressure-related issue:

• Slow Tank Fill-Up: RO tank taking hours to fill? Low incoming pressure is likely to blame. The system can’t push enough water through the membrane as it should.
• Weak Flow from RO Faucet: A slow or weak stream from the RO faucet usually means low pressure is preventing the tank from filling properly, reducing overall flow when dispensing water.
• Frequent System Shut-Off or Restart: Low water pressure can confuse the shut-off valve, making the RO system turn on and off repeatedly or stop too early. 
• Poor-Tasting Water: When pressure is low, water lingers in used filters or a fouled membrane. The result is that even filtered water has a weird taste or odor.
• Filtered Water Still Shows High TDS: If a TDS meter shows little drop between tap and RO water, the membrane is not forcing out dissolved solids due to low pressure.

Causes of Low Water Pressure in RO Systems

Early sign detection is important; after picking up on any of the above signs, act quickly. Some fixes can be done by yourself while others require professionals. Look at the common causes and what you can do:

1. Low Incoming Water Pressure

Most RO systems need at least 40 psi, ideally 60 psi, to run efficiently. In Canada, municipal water pressure varies by city. Toronto’s system ranges from 40 to 115 psi, while Winnipeg averages around 65 psi. It gets worse in older buildings and rural areas due to inconsistent municipal supply. 

Check the pressure at a faucet with a simple gauge. If the house pressure is consistently low, install a booster pump. If pressure is fine elsewhere, your RO system is the issue. Call WaterMart for a full diagnostic.

2. Clogged Pre-Filters

Pre-filters (sediment, carbon block, GAC) catch dirt and chlorine before water hits the membrane. As time passes, they clog especially in areas with higher particulate matter in the water supply. 

Just remember to replace filters every 6-12 months (or every 6 months in heavy-use households or hard water zones). Call WaterMart for scheduled maintenance.

3. Fouled or Degraded RO Membrane

Canada’s hard water regions are tough on RO membranes. Mineral scaling, organic fouling, and chemical exposure degrade membrane performance. This can lead to low flow and poor water quality. 

Replace the membrane every 2–3 years, or sooner if you notice a drop in pressure and TDS performance. For hard water households, consider a water softener upstream. Call WaterMart today to test the efficiency of the membrane. 

4. Malfunctioning RO Storage Tank

If the flow starts strong but drops after a cup or two, it’s usually the internal bladder of the tank. A faulty storage tank, especially one with a compromised bladder, can lead to inadequate water flow. 

This is not repairable as the entire tank needs replacement. Call WaterMart for quality replacement tanks and installation services.

5. Incorrect Tank Pressure Settings

The RO storage tank should have an air pressure of 7-8 psi when empty. Incorrect pressure settings can hinder water flow, often leading to issues like the RO tank not filling up, which commonly happens in DIY setups.

Use a pressure gauge to check and adjust the tank’s air pressure. Overpressurizing can rupture the bladder. If you’re unsure, have WaterMart handle the calibration.

6. Kinks or Leaks in Tubing

Crimped tubing, loose fittings, or pinhole leaks anywhere in the RO line reduce pressure. These are especially common in under-sink setups with tight installs or if the unit has been moved recently.

Inspect all lines for kinks, compression bends, or moisture, and make sure the supply valve is fully open. If you’re not comfortable tracing leaks, WaterMart offers fast-response service across Canada.

7. Cold Water Temperature

In colder months, water temperature drops (5°C or lower) can increase viscosity, slowing down the RO filtration process. This is a design limitation, as most RO membranes are rated for 25°C. While this is a natural occurrence, insulating water lines or slightly warming the incoming water can help. Consult with WaterMart for tailored solutions suitable for Canadian winters.

8. Faulty Check Valve or Flow Restrictor

These small parts regulate wastewater and maintain membrane pressure. If they clog or fail, pressure inside the system drops, or worse, wastewater flows backward into the clean side, reducing flow and contaminating water. 

Replace faulty restrictors or check valves with components that match your membrane spec (measured in GPD). If you’re not sure what part fits your RO system, WaterMart can inspect and replace it with OEM parts for all major brands.

How Can You Boost RO Pressure?

If you’ve already ruled out clogs, leaks, and low municipal pressure but your RO system still delivers a weak flow, it’s time to upgrade the hardware. These proven solutions can improve tank fill speed, faucet pressure, and system efficiency.

Install a Permeate Pump

A permeate pump uses the drain water pressure (not electricity) to push purified water into the RO tank more efficiently. It boosts tank pressure, reduces wastewater by up to 80%, and shortens refill time. You can add one to your existing setup or buy a system with a built-in pump. It’s perfect for retrofitting older setups without complex modifications.

Use an Electric Booster Pump

Booster pumps raise feed water pressure before it enters the RO system. This is the best option for households where water pressure is below 40–50 psi. Residential units like the FC-1400 push up to 80 psi and pair with a tank pressure switch to avoid over-pressurizing. Install it after your sediment filter to protect the pump and avoid cycling or leaks.

Increase RO Tank Capacity

Your tank size directly affects water flow and how long it lasts before a refill. Most homes use 4.5-gallon tanks with around 2.8 usable gallons. Upgrading to a larger tank or adding a second one boosts output and reduces refill lag. 

For high-use households, plumbing two tanks together is a reliable way, or use our tankless reverse osmosis system for continuous performance without storage limitations.

Upgrade to a Higher Capacity Membrane

RO membrane size controls how fast water gets filtered. Swapping to a higher GPD membrane (e.g., 150 GPD) speeds up tank fill times and pressure recovery. Always upgrade the flow restrictor to match the new membrane. To get full flow at the faucet, switch post-membrane tubing and valves to 3/8″; it makes a big difference.

Regular Maintenance Tips for Optimal Pressure

To get consistent pressure in your reverse osmosis system, you need to keep up with the maintenance. Skipping RO system maintenance can lead to slow flow, clogged filters, or pressure loss. Here are the main points to focus on: 

• Replace the sediment filter every 6–12 months (first base to avoid clogging)
• Swap out the RO membrane every 2–5 years (depends on water quality and usage) 
• Check tank pressure regularly (it should read 6–8 psi when fully empty)
• Clean or replace the faucet aerator, especially if you see visible buildup.
• Flush the system periodically to clear sediment.
• Inspect and clean water lines for kinks or blockages.
• Watch for leaks at fittings and connections.

Causes of Low Water Pressure in RO Systems

Early sign detection is important; after picking up on any of the above signs, act quickly. Some fixes can be done by yourself while others require professionals. Look at the common causes and what you can do:

1. Low Incoming Water Pressure

Most RO systems need at least 40 psi, ideally 60 psi, to run efficiently. In Canada, municipal water pressure varies by city. Toronto’s system ranges from 40 to 115 psi, while Winnipeg averages around 65 psi. It gets worse in older buildings and rural areas due to inconsistent municipal supply. 

Check the pressure at a faucet with a simple gauge. If the house pressure is consistently low, install a booster pump. If pressure is fine elsewhere, your RO system is the issue. Call WaterMart for a full diagnostic.

2. Clogged Pre-Filters

Pre-filters (sediment, carbon block, GAC) catch dirt and chlorine before water hits the membrane. As time passes, they clog especially in areas with higher particulate matter in the water supply. 

Just remember to replace filters every 6-12 months (or every 6 months in heavy-use households or hard water zones). Call WaterMart for scheduled maintenance.

3. Fouled or Degraded RO Membrane

Canada’s hard water regions are tough on RO membranes. Mineral scaling, organic fouling, and chemical exposure degrade membrane performance. This can lead to low flow and poor water quality. 

Replace the membrane every 2–3 years, or sooner if you notice a drop in pressure and TDS performance. For hard water households, consider a water softener upstream. Call WaterMart today to test the efficiency of the membrane. 

4. Malfunctioning RO Storage Tank

If the flow starts strong but drops after a cup or two, it’s usually the internal bladder of the tank. A faulty storage tank, especially one with a compromised bladder, can lead to inadequate water flow. 

This is not repairable as the entire tank needs replacement. Call WaterMart for quality replacement tanks and installation services.

5. Incorrect Tank Pressure Settings

The RO storage tank should have an air pressure of 7-8 psi when empty. Incorrect pressure settings can hinder water flow, often leading to issues like the RO tank not filling up, which commonly happens in DIY setups.

Use a pressure gauge to check and adjust the tank’s air pressure. Overpressurizing can rupture the bladder. If you’re unsure, have WaterMart handle the calibration.

6. Kinks or Leaks in Tubing

Crimped tubing, loose fittings, or pinhole leaks anywhere in the RO line reduce pressure. These are especially common in under-sink setups with tight installs or if the unit has been moved recently.

Inspect all lines for kinks, compression bends, or moisture, and make sure the supply valve is fully open. If you’re not comfortable tracing leaks, WaterMart offers fast-response service across Canada.

7. Cold Water Temperature

In colder months, water temperature drops (5°C or lower) can increase viscosity, slowing down the RO filtration process. This is a design limitation, as most RO membranes are rated for 25°C. While this is a natural occurrence, insulating water lines or slightly warming the incoming water can help. Consult with WaterMart for tailored solutions suitable for Canadian winters.

8. Faulty Check Valve or Flow Restrictor

These small parts regulate wastewater and maintain membrane pressure. If they clog or fail, pressure inside the system drops, or worse, wastewater flows backward into the clean side, reducing flow and contaminating water. 

Replace faulty restrictors or check valves with components that match your membrane spec (measured in GPD). If you’re not sure what part fits your RO system, WaterMart can inspect and replace it with OEM parts for all major brands.

How Can You Boost RO Pressure?

If you’ve already ruled out clogs, leaks, and low municipal pressure but your RO system still delivers a weak flow, it’s time to upgrade the hardware. These proven solutions can improve tank fill speed, faucet pressure, and system efficiency.

Install a Permeate Pump

A permeate pump uses the drain water pressure (not electricity) to push purified water into the RO tank more efficiently. It boosts tank pressure, reduces wastewater by up to 80%, and shortens refill time. You can add one to your existing setup or buy a system with a built-in pump. It’s perfect for retrofitting older setups without complex modifications.

Use an Electric Booster Pump

Booster pumps raise feed water pressure before it enters the RO system. This is the best option for households where water pressure is below 40–50 psi. Residential units like the FC-1400 push up to 80 psi and pair with a tank pressure switch to avoid over-pressurizing. Install it after your sediment filter to protect the pump and avoid cycling or leaks.

Increase RO Tank Capacity

Your tank size directly affects water flow and how long it lasts before a refill. Most homes use 4.5-gallon tanks with around 2.8 usable gallons. Upgrading to a larger tank or adding a second one boosts output and reduces refill lag. 

For high-use households, plumbing two tanks together is a reliable way, or use our tankless reverse osmosis system for continuous performance without storage limitations.

Upgrade to a Higher Capacity Membrane

RO membrane size controls how fast water gets filtered. Swapping to a higher GPD membrane (e.g., 150 GPD) speeds up tank fill times and pressure recovery. Always upgrade the flow restrictor to match the new membrane. To get full flow at the faucet, switch post-membrane tubing and valves to 3/8″; it makes a big difference.

Regular Maintenance Tips for Optimal Pressure

To get consistent pressure in your reverse osmosis system, you need to keep up with the maintenance. Skipping RO system maintenance can lead to slow flow, clogged filters, or pressure loss. Here are the main points to focus on: 

• Replace the sediment filter every 6–12 months (first base to avoid clogging)
• Swap out the RO membrane every 2–5 years (depends on water quality and usage) 
• Check tank pressure regularly (it should read 6–8 psi when fully empty)
• Clean or replace the faucet aerator, especially if you see visible buildup.
• Flush the system periodically to clear sediment.
• Inspect and clean water lines for kinks or blockages.
• Watch for leaks at fittings and connections.

Most of this can be handled DIY, but if you’re unsure, WaterMart’s experts are a call away.

When to Call a Professional?

Some RO issues aren’t about filter swaps and pressure checks. If you’ve cleaned the lines, replaced filters, and adjusted pressure but still have poor flow, it’s time for expert help. WaterMart offers free water testing to assess your system and water quality.

We have over 30 years of hands-on experience and hundreds of five-star reviews from Toronto homeowners. Whether it’s a tank pressure issue, worn-out components, or a system that needs professional flushing, our certified techs get it done right. Book a system inspection or full maintenance visit, we’ll diagnose the issue and restore full pressure on the spot.

Conclusion

Understand that low RO water pressure is fixable if you act quickly. Plus, with regular filter changes, tank checks, and system cleaning, you can keep your water flowing strong. And if problems persist, WaterMart’s expert team is ready with the tools and experience to get your system back on track. We’ve serviced thousands of systems across Toronto and can get yours back to top performance.
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