High water pressure has its benefits. However, when it’s too high, it can damage appliances, fixtures, and plumbing systems. The home structure can also be affected should pipes start leaking.
Here are some reasons for a home to have high water pressure:
High supply pressure
Municipal water systems supply water under high pressure in areas with many hills, fire hydrants, and tall buildings. This is intentional to ensure that all areas receive water.
Low location
Those who live on low-lying ground may have high water pressure too. This can be associated with the gravity increase as the water gets close to the home.
Temperature changes
When temperatures in the plumbing system increase, the water expands. This leads to an increase in the pressure. The same expansion happens when water heaters are used, especially if the pressure relief valve or expansion tanks are defective.
Faulty regulators
Water pressure regulators can be installed in high-pressure areas. If the regulators are defective, the problem will remain unresolved. Water pressure regulators can last 7 to 10 years before needing replacement. It’s important to have them maintained from time to time.
How to tell whether the water pressure is too high
There are scientific methods to ascertain whether the pressure is too high. However, some typical signs can tell homeowners they are dealing with a high water pressure issue:
High water bills
If the water bills increase significantly, it could mean high water pressure.
Clanging pipes
When water is under high pressure and moving through the plumbing, it can’t move evenly due to limited space. It tends to bounce off in the sides of the pipes and back, causing shuddering, banging, or rattling of the pipes.
Loud appliances
If dishwashers and washing machines create a lot of noise, it indicates the water pressure is too high. It’s noisy as the appliances regulate the water flowing through the hoses.
Inadequate hot water
If the hot water in the home runs out quickly, it means the water is moving through the showerheads or faucets faster than it should.
Dealing with high water pressure
High water pressure in a home can be detrimental if left unchecked. The first step is to identify that there is indeed a high water pressure issue in the home. Remedying this issue involves installing water pressure regulators.
Call in the experts
The professionals can diagnose a water pressure issue and correctly install a regulator. Professional plumbers can also offer regular maintenance services to avoid a repeat of the problem. They can also check and replace defective water heaters and pressure regulators.
Royalty Plumbing offers high-quality residential plumbing services in the areas of Las Vegas, Henderson, North Las Vegas, and Summerlin.