Water pressure in your home is as essential as a heartbeat is to the human body. It keeps your plumbing system functioning smoothly, so you can have water when and where you need it.
However, just like with anything, too much can cause problems. High water pressure might seem like a luxury, but it can wreak havoc on your plumbing system if it becomes excessive. We’ve seen firsthand how too much water pressure can lead to costly repairs and frustration for many homeowners.
Common Signs of High Water Pressure Issues
High water pressure doesn’t always announce itself loudly, but there are several signs you can watch for. The following are common signs that the water pressure in your home may be a bit too high:
Leaking Pipes: Pressure that’s too high can push your plumbing to its limits, causing cracks and leaks.
Noisy Pipes: Water moving at high speeds can create banging or whistling sounds in your pipes.
Broken Seals: The seals around pipe joints aren’t made to handle extreme pressure, and they may fail under excessive strain.
High Water Bills: More water flowing through your pipes can lead to a surprising jump in your monthly bill.
Damaged Appliances: Devices like your dishwasher or washing machine weren’t built to tolerate constant high pressure and may wear out faster.
Dripping Faucets: If you keep tightening your taps only to see water still dripping, high pressure could be the culprit.
Leaking Toilets: Toilets are especially sensitive, and high water pressure might force water past the internal seals.
Running Out of Hot Water: High water pressure can deplete your hot water heater faster than usual.
Forceful Water Spray: If the water from your taps or shower head feels too intense, your pressure may need adjusting.
Leaking Water Heater or T&P (Temperature and Pressure) Valve Issues: The pressure relief components of your water heater are designed to handle high-pressure fluctuations, but they can only withstand so much.
Mineral Deposits on Valves: Excessive pressure exacerbates mineral buildup, reducing efficiency and causing long-term issues.
What Causes High Water Pressure?
Understanding what leads to high water pressure can help you address the root of the problem. Some common culprits include:
City Adjustments: Municipal water departments may periodically adjust water pressure to meet supply needs, often pushing it higher than your home’s plumbing system is able to handle.
Backflow Preventer Issues: This device guides water to flow in the right direction, but when it malfunctions, pressure can increase.
Failed Pressure Reducing Valve: If your home already has a pressure reducing valve (PRV), it may have worn out or stopped working effectively.
Clogged Pipes & Mineral Content in Water: Mineral buildup may narrow the passageways for water and create certain blockages, thereby increasing pressure and potentially causing damage to plumbing fixtures over time.
Temperature Changes: Drastic changes in weather can cause water to expand and contract within pipes, which can increase pressure throughout the seasons.
Geographic Location: If your home is situated at the bottom of a hill or in a cul-de-sac, higher pressure might be necessary to serve nearby homes properly, which could be affecting your system.
How to Fix High Water Pressure
Thankfully, dealing with high water pressure is usually straightforward. Installing a Pressure Reducing Valve (PRV) is the most common and effective solution. A PRV works by regulating the flow of water into your home, so it stays at a safe and consistent level.
A well-maintained PRV usually lasts between 7-10 years, and it’s a relatively quick fix for experienced professionals. The Castlewood Plumbing team is experienced in installing and maintaining PRVs through a process that is smooth, efficient, and tailored to your home’s specific needs.
How to Test Water Pressure
Not sure if high water pressure is affecting you? You can test it using a simple pressure gauge, available at most hardware stores. Attach the gauge to an outdoor spigot or laundry tap to measure your pressure, keeping the following in mind:
Water pressure should never exceed 80 PSI.
For smaller homes, the ideal range is 45-55 PSI.
Larger properties often require slightly higher pressure, around 60-70 PSI.
What to Do After Replacing the PR Valve
If your PRV is replaced or a high-pressure issue is resolved, you may also need to address residual issues caused by prolonged exposure to high pressure. For example, faucets, toilets, and other fixtures often accumulate mineral deposits, impacting their performance and efficiency. It’s a good idea to replace or clean these parts after adjusting your water pressure.
Trust Castlewood Plumbing for Your Home
Your home’s plumbing system deserves the same care and attention as your car or other vital systems. High water pressure can lead to extensive damage, but with early detection and the right solutions, you can save money and unnecessary headaches.
Whether you’re seeing the signs or you’re simply looking to schedule an inspection for greater peace of mind, Castlewood Plumbing is here to help. With our 24/7 availability, same-day service options, and a dedicated team of skilled plumbers, we’re committed to providing top-notch plumbing services when you need them most.
Don’t wait—contact us at (636) 306-5420 today for assistance.