Signs of High Water Pressure
High water pressure can cause damage to the plumbing and appliances in your home over time. There are several symptoms which, when present together, indicate you might have a water pressure issue. Installing a water pressure regulator can reduce the water pressure in your home to safe levels.
Pressure gauge
A pressure gauge attached to a hose bibb or washing machine faucet measures the water pressure in your home.
As someone who grew up with low water pressure, moving into town and having a shower with good water pressure was a treat! Unfortunately having too much water pressure can damage the plumbing and the appliances. Water consumption is also higher, which increases the water bill.
The water pressure in your home should measure between 20 - 80PSI. The preferred range is 40-60PSI for optimal operation. If a pressure gauge indicates that the water pressure is greater than 80PSI, you should get the pressure reduced. High water pressure can be an issue for everyone. If you would like Mike to test your water pressure during his visit, please let him know.
Symptoms of high water pressure
There’s a combination of symptoms which can point to a water pressure issue. These symptoms include:
Developing pinhole leaks in the pipes
Water hammer - heard as a banging noise while the water is being turned off
Water-using appliances fill up loudly, and wear out quicker than expected
Running out of hot water faster than expected
Faucets dripping
Toilets running all the time
High water bills
Fixing High Water Pressure
The solution for high water pressure is installing a water pressure regulator. The regulator is installed where the water comes into the home, just after the water meter if one is in place. Once the regulator is installed, it is adjusted to provide the correct water pressure in the system.
Installed pressure regulator
This customer had water pressure which was too high and was damaging fixtures. We installed a water pressure regulator to lower the pressure in the house.
Water pressure regulators do have a lifespan ranging from 4-12 years. If you start noticing issues with your water pressure and have a regulator installed, it might be time to get the unit changed. We can assist with both installation and replacement of regulators.