Water pressure is an essential factor in every modern home. It is responsible for powering up our showers, faucets, and other household appliances. Often, homeowners tend to overlook their water pressure and only realize there are problems when it’s too late. Low or high water pressure can cause inconvenience and can lead to significant damage throughout your home. Luckily, evaluating your home’s water pressure and addressing low or high-pressure issues can help keep your water supply stable. In this blog, we will discuss everything you need to know about evaluating water pressure and how to address it when there are low or high-pressure issues.
Understanding Water Pressure Levels
Before delving into the causes and remedies of potential water pressure issues, it’s essential to understand water pressure levels. Water pressure levels are measured in pounds per square inch (PSI). The ideal range is between 45 PSI and 55 PSI. Anything below 40 PSI is considered low pressure and anything above 80 PSI is considered high pressure.
Identifying Low Water Pressure Symptoms
Low water pressure can lead to several plumbing issues, which can become more concerning over time. Identifying the signs of low water pressure can help you address the problem right away. Some common symptoms include weak water flow, slow water flow rate, unexplained water leaks, and bubbling taps.
Identifying High Water Pressure Symptoms
Like low-pressure problems, high-pressure issues can also lead to significant plumbing problems. They can cause burst pipes, leaks, and broken household appliances such as dishwashers and washing machines. You can identify high-pressure symptoms such as banging pipes, leaking faucets, and strange noises in your plumbing.
Addressing Low Water Pressure Issues
There are different options you can choose from in addressing low water pressure issues. Firstly, check for any clogs or obstructions in your pipes. Secondly, check if there are any valves on your water meter or near your main water line from the city water supply, and if they’re partially to fully shut off. Thirdly, consider installing a pressure booster or pressure regulator. Lastly, it’s best to hire a licensed plumber to evaluate the root cause of your low-pressure issues.
Addressing High Water Pressure Issues
High water pressure is risky and needs to be addressed as soon as possible. One easy solution is to install a pressure-reducing valve (PRV) on your water line. PRVs are an affordable way to regulate high water pressure throughout your entire house. A professional plumber can also help you check whether your existing PRV is functioning correctly and install any necessary repairs or replacements.
Conclusion
Water pressure problems are common, but they can result in significant havoc to your home. Proper evaluation and addressing of low or high-water pressure issues can help you avoid unnecessary expenses and keep your family safe. Keep an eye out for any unusual signs or symptoms and always hire a licensed plumber to help you evaluate any suspected water pressure problems. Contact your local plumbing professional today for an assessment and any necessary water pressure solutions.