Static Water Pressure Calculator
Calculate water pressure at the bottom of a column based on elevation difference.
Supports PSI and bar units.
Water Pressure
Hydrostatic pressure formula:
P = ρ × g × h
Where:
- P = pressure
- ρ = density of water (1000 kg/m³ or 62.4 lb/ft³)
- g = gravitational acceleration (9.81 m/s²)
- h = height/elevation difference
Simplified rules of thumb:
- 1 foot of water = 0.433 PSI
- 1 meter of water = 9.81 kPa = 0.0981 bar
- 2.31 feet of water = 1 PSI
Common applications:
| Scenario | Height | Pressure |
|---|---|---|
| Water tower (150 ft) | 150 ft | 65 PSI |
| Residential (city supply) | — | 40–80 PSI |
| 2-story home (20 ft) | 20 ft | 8.7 PSI |
| Swimming pool (8 ft deep) | 8 ft | 3.5 PSI |
Ideal home water pressure: 40–60 PSI (2.8–4.1 bar). Above 80 PSI, install a pressure regulator.