High Water Pressure – How it Affects Your Pipes

Water pressure is measured in pounds per square inch (psi). Normal water pressure in a home is between 45 and 80 psi. When the water pressure inside your home gets too high or low, it can cause all kinds of problems.

Water pressures below 40 psi are considered to be low. Most homeowners only experience issues with low water pressure when the city is working on a municipal water line. In most cases, water pressure is restored once work has been completed. If your home suffers from persistent low water pressure problems, you may want to call a plumber. Blocked water pipes, sediment buildup in a water heater, or a damaged pressure relief valve are a few of the causes of persistent low water pressure in a home.

High Water Pressure Can Damage the Plumbing in Your Home

While low water pressure is more of an inconvenience, high water pressure can result in serious plumbing problems. Pressures above 80 psi are considered to be high. High water pressure can dislocate and damage pipes, joints, seals, and fixtures and waste water.

Signs That Your Water Pressure May Be Too High

It’s easy to tell when your water pressure is too low, but what about when it’s too high? Here are some of the signs you water pressure may be too high:

• Leaking pipes and connections.
• Loud banging or knocking sounds originating from your plumbing.
• Spitting noises when a faucet is turned on.
• Regular leaks in appliances and plumbing fixtures.
• Problems with appliances that use water such as ice makers, dishwashers, or washing machines.
• Toilet problems.
• Higher than normal water bills.

For the most part, high water pressure isn’t a problem for homeowners in Oceanside, CA. The because the state’s plumbing code requires home to have a water pressure regulator that maintains a steady water pressure inside the home. In addition, most homes have Pressure Relief Valves (PRVs) located near the water meter. The PRV is used to adjust the pressure of the water coming into a home.

Homeowners in Oceanside, CA can measure and monitor the water pressure inside their home using a simple water pressure gauge. Water pressure gauges are inexpensive and can be purchased at most local hardware and department stores as well as online retailers. If the pressure is too high or too low, you’ll want to adjust your PRV or call a plumber for help.

24/7 Plumbers in Oceanside, CA

If you’re experiencing water pressure problems or other type of plumbing emergency, get in touch with 1st Choice Plumbing, Flood & Restoration as soon as possible. Even minor plumbing problems can result in major, costly damage. Our team of licensed Oceanside, CA plumbers are available 24/7 to address just about any plumbing problem local homeowners may experience.

1st Choice Plumbing, Flood & Restoration has been providing expert, affordable plumbing services to home and business owners in Oceanside, CA and surrounding communities since 2012. You can reach us through our website or call us at 866-437-0205 whenever you need prompt professional plumbing services in Oceanside, CA.