How High-Water Pressure Can Damage Your Plumbing

You forgot to set your alarm last night, so when you checked that you are almost late for work, you just jumped right into the shower. Only to be annoyed because virtually no water is coming out of the showerhead due to low-water pressure. So, you plan to call somebody to increase the water pressure in your home. But, wait! While low-water pressure can be annoying, did you know that water pressure can be too high and can cause damage to your home’s plumbing system?

When is water pressure too high?

While some may think that a strong shower due to high water pressure is considered a luxury, keep in mind that too much of a good thing can also bad. The normal water pressure should be between 45 and 55 psi (pounds per square inch). Anything that exceeds it is considered too high and can cause plumbing problems. 

Signs that high-water pressure that is set too high

The best way to diagnose an overly high water pressure is to call a professional to check your plumbing system. Aside from that, watch out for the warning signs such as:

1. Leaking faucet
2. Noisy and rattling pipes
3. Increasing water bills
4. Running toilet

How does high water pressure harm my plumbing system?

Water pressure is the same as the body’s blood pressure. Consistent high blood pressure will give birth to more serious health problems and can even cause death. The same thing goes for high water pressure; it can cause plumbing problems and may lead to plumbing damage. Other negative effects of high-water pressure are as follows:

• Bursting of pipes

The high pressure causes the water flow to be more robust; thus, causing the pipes to jostle as the powerful water moves through them. Over time, this jostling movement can erode and damage the pipe leading to leakage. Leaking doesn’t just mean wastage of water, but it can also cause mold growth.

• Damaging plumbing fixtures

Anything that affects your plumbing system can also affect its fixtures such as faucets, sinks, toilets, and washing machines. In fact, high water pressure is the number one enemy of a water appliance. The high pressure can stress your washing machine and other water fixtures; thus, decreasing their lifespan. Your water heater will be affected with high water pressure too. Most water heaters have thermal expansion tanks which may take a toll when the water pressure is very high. High pressure in water heats it up and causes it to expand. Thermal expansion tanks may burst, resulting in costly repairs if the water continues to expand. 

• Soaring water bill

Increasing water consumption due to high water pressure is the result of water leaking from the damaged pipes. Water leakage, if left unfixed, may increase your water bills by up to 30%. 

How to fix high water pressure problems?

The most common cause of high-water pressure in your home is the municipal freshwater system, especially in locations with many tall buildings. While you can’t control the water pump supply in your area, you can prevent the damage caused by high water pressure in your plumbing system by calling a professional plumbing company. They will fix plumbing problems caused by high water pressure and reduce water pressure around your house by installing a pressure regulating valve.