While the ideal shower usually includes hot water and strong water pressure, there is such a thing as your water pressure being too high. Water pressure that’s higher than the recommended PSI can cause problems with your appliances and take a toll on your plumbing. Here’s how high water pressure affects your pipes and what you can do to fix it.
What Are Signs of High Water Pressure?
The first thing you may notice is an expensive or increasing water bill. The higher your water pressure PSI, the more gallons of water you use per minute when your faucet is turned on. With the standard water pressure of 50 PSI, you use about 30 gallons of water per 10 minutes, compared to 60 PSI, where you use about 36 gallons.
You may also notice a loud banging noise when you turn off the faucet, called a “water hammer.” This happens when the pressure in your pipes is already very high and is adapting to the increase in pressure from turning off the faucet. Other signs of high water pressure include a short hot water supply, running toilets, and leaky faucets.
Why Is High Water Pressure Dangerous to Your Pipes?
The high water pressure causes damage to your pipes by putting additional stress on your plumbing system. This loosens joints and can cause pinhole leaks in pipes, leading to mold and other damage if water seeps into walls, ceilings, or floors. Pipes can eventually burst and need to be repaired by a professional plumber.
Additionally, water pressure that’s too high also wares away seals and mechanical parts of your toilet, faucets, and appliances. This can not only shorten their lifespan but in some cases, appliance warranties may be voided if high water pressure is the cause of damage.
How Can You Reduce the Pressure?
If you think your water pressure is too high, you can easily test it with a water pressure gauge. This can be found at your local hardware store and attached to the faucet closest to your water meter.
If your PSI is too high and your pressure regulator is working properly, you can adjust your regulator by turning the screw counterclockwise to decrease water pressure. Make small adjustments and check the pressure in between each adjustment. You can also call a plumber to install a water pressure relief valve, which is a type of safety valve for you and your plumbing system.
If you’re having problems due to your water pressure, count on the knowledgeable team at John Lockwood Plumbing in Ontario, NY. Serving Monroe, Wayne, and Ontario counties since 1973, these fully trained, licensed plumbing professionals are equipped to tackle any job from new plumbing installation to faucet repair and replacement. To schedule an appointment, call (585) 265-0736 or visit them online to browse their services.
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