Why High Water Pressure is Bad for Your Plumbing
Water pressure is something we all have a personal preference for. Some people like a strong rush of water, while others may feel that’s too much. Despite your personal preference, there is a fine line between too much and too little water pressure. While a shower with high water pressure can be the best thing to wake someone up in the morning, high water pressure is bad for your plumbing system. Believe it or not, high water pressure can have major, and sometimes expensive, consequences for your plumbing. Today we’re sharing the reasons why high water pressure is bad for your plumbing.
What’s Wrong with High Water Pressure?
Most plumbing systems are designed to handle 80 PSI of water pressure. But what is that exactly? PSI stands for “pounds per square inch,” meaning your home is designed to handle 80 pounds of water per square inch. Even with this threshold, your water pressure should flow between 50 and 70 PSI. If your water pressure is at 80 PSI or above, you run the risk of damage to your plumbing system and higher than normal water bills.
What Will High Water Pressure do to My Plumbing?
If you’re dealing with high water pressure, the most common consequence are leaks in your plumbing system. While a leak from high water pressure can start small—think the size of a pin prick—they can grow into a much larger problem. High water pressure can also weaken your gaskets, fixtures, seals, and pipes, leading to leaks, floods, and extensive repairs. Also, it’s a huge waste of water which leads to higher than normal bills.
How Can I Tell If My Water Pressure is Too High?
There are a few things to look and listen for if you believe your water pressure is too high. One of the most obvious signs are leaky faucets or if your toilet is constantly running—even when it’s not in use. Another sign is if you can hear a banging or hammering noise when you turn on a faucet. This noise is also known as “Water Hammer.” If you believe your water pressure is too high, you can test it with a water pressure gauge or call a professional plumber.
What Causes High Water Pressure?
There are a few things that cause high pressure. One is if your home is at the bottom of a hill. Homes on a slope or at the bottom of a hill see higher water pressure because water naturally flows downhill. Another reason could be your local water company. Some companies keep water pressure high to service large apartment buildings or fire hydrants.
What Can I do If My Water Pressure is Too High?
If you suspect your water pressure is too high, there are a few courses of action you can take. One is to install a water pressure regulator. The Spruce has a great tutorial of how to do it yourself. If you’re not technically savvy, we recommend calling a plumber. Our plumbers are experts in their field and understand how to diagnose, treat, and maintain water pressure.
The Plumbers at Moore Home Services Can Help
Do you think your water pressure is too high? The plumbers at Moore Home Services are here to help. Our plumbers are expertly trained and ready to offer the best solution for your home and your plumbing system. We are a Diamond Certified company proudly serve Santa Rosa and most surrounding communities. Please reach out to our friendly call center representatives or click here to request an appointment online.