Can High Water Pressure Cause Leaks?
High water pressure can be convenient, especially when cleaning your car or taking a shower. However, it can be a hidden cause of leaks and other plumbing problems in your home. The excessive force of water flow can stress pipes, valves, and other plumbing components, leading to leaks and other damage.
Your main water line’s pressure regulator keeps water pressure within a safe range and protects your plumbing system from damage. You may have to seek a plumber for water pressure regulator repair if you notice several leaks in your water supply systems—like faucets and showers.
When is water pressure too high?
Water pressure is the force with which water flows through pipes and into your home, and it’s measured in PSI (pounds per square inch). Typically, water pressure regulators are set between 45 to 60 psi, depending on a house’s requirements.
Most homes’ plumbing systems can only handle up to 80 psi of water pressure. Values beyond this can cause significant damage to your home over time.
What are the effects of too much water pressure?
Water pressure above 80 psi can have several adverse effects on your home. Here are some of them:
- Pipe Leaks – Constant high pressure can cause small leaks in pipes. This problem may seem insignificant. But over time, it can lead to pipe bursts and costly water damage to your home’s structures.
- Water Heater Damage – Water heaters usually have thermal expansion tanks to manage built-up pressure when water expands during heating. Consistently high pressure can overwhelm this system, resulting in water heater failure.
- Reduced Lifespan of Fixtures and Appliances – Persistent water pressure above 80 psi can also cause appliances and fixtures that use water, such as washing machines and faucets, to wear out more quickly. As a result, you may need to replace these items earlier than expected.
- Higher Utility Bills – High water pressure results in more significant water usage every time a faucet is turned on. Such cases are wasteful and lead to higher water bills.
Signs Your Water Pressure Is Too High
You may notice a few problems in your house that may signal your main water line’s pressure is too high. These include:
- Leaky faucets (even after washer replacement)
- Strange banging noises in pipes
- Unusual loud sounds from a washing machine or dishwasher
- Malfunctioning water heater
- Frequent breakdowns of plumbing appliances
Get Help From the Plumbing Experts
If you suspect a higher-than-normal water pressure in your home, it’s best to call a plumber to inspect the issue. Contact us at Severson Plumbing if you need a reliable plumbing company in Bend, OR. You can trust us to provide top-quality water pressure regulator repair. Call us today!