Understanding and Managing High Water Pressure
Water pressure: it’s something we don’t think about much—until there’s a problem. When it’s too low, showers turn into a sad drizzle. But when it’s too high? That’s when you start seeing leaks, pipe damage, and skyrocketing water bills.
At Donnie’s Plumbing, we’ve seen the good, the bad, and the ugly when it comes to excessive water pressure. Let’s talk about what causes it, how to spot the warning signs, and what you can do to keep your plumbing in top shape.
What Causes Water Pressure Problems?
High pressure can be great when washing your car or rinsing off a driveway, but inside your home, it’s another story. Here’s what might be pushing your water pressure past the limit:
- Your Water Supplier: Sometimes, the city delivers water at a higher pressure to meet the needs of fire hydrants or tall buildings. Unfortunately, that same pressure gets sent to your house, too.
- A Faulty or Missing Pressure Regulator: If your home has a water pressure regulator, it should be keeping things under control. But if it’s broken—or you don’t have one—your pipes might be handling more force than they should.
- Thermal Expansion: When water heats up inside your water heater, it expands. Without a proper expansion tank, this can increase pressure throughout your plumbing system.
How to Tell If Your Water Pressure Is Too High
Not sure if pressure is a problem in your home? Look for these telltale signs:
- Banging or rattling pipes – That loud thunk you hear when turning off a faucet? It’s called “water hammer,” and it’s a sign that water is hitting your pipes too hard.
- Leaky faucets or constantly running toilets – If fixtures won’t stop dripping, excessive pressure could be wearing down seals and valves.
- Appliances wearing out too soon – Dishwashers, washing machines, and water heaters aren’t built to handle constant high pressure. If yours don’t last as long as expected, your water flow might be the culprit.
- An unusually high water bill – Using more water than normal? Stronger pressure pushes more water through your pipes—even when you don’t realize it.
How to Fix and Manage Water Pressure
The good news? You don’t have to live with out-of-control water pressure. Here’s what you can do:
1. Install a Pressure Regulator
If your home doesn’t already have one, a pressure regulator (also called a PRV) is the best way to control excessive flow. It reduces stress on pipes, fixtures, and appliances—helping them last longer.
2. Maintain Your Pressure Regulator
Already have one? It needs regular checkups. If your PRV is more than 10 years old, it might not be working properly. A plumber can test and adjust it to keep your pressure in the safe range—usually 40 to 60 psi.
3. Add an Expansion Tank
If your water heater is part of the problem, installing an expansion tank can help absorb excess pressure when water heats up. This prevents strain on your plumbing and extends the life of your heater.
4. Call a Professional for a Full Inspection
Still dealing with high pressure? A licensed plumber can evaluate your system and recommend long-term fixes. We use professional-grade gauges to measure pressure levels and make sure your plumbing is set up for success.
Why Balanced Water Pressure Matters
Keeping your water pressure in check isn’t just about avoiding leaks—it protects your entire plumbing system. A well-regulated system:
Prevents costly damage – No more burst pipes, broken seals, or worn-out appliances.
Reduces water waste – Lower pressure means you’re using only what you need.
Extends appliance life – Washing machines, dishwashers, and water heaters last longer with controlled flow.
If you suspect your water pressure is too high, don’t wait for a major plumbing failure. Give Donnie’s Plumbing a call, and we’ll help you get it under control.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the ideal water pressure for a home?
Most homes should have water pressure between 40 and 60 psi. Anything over 80 psi can lead to plumbing problems.
Can high water pressure damage my pipes?
Yes. Over time, excessive pressure weakens pipes, causes leaks, and shortens the lifespan of fixtures and appliances.
How do I test my water pressure at home?
You can buy a water pressure gauge at a hardware store and attach it to an outdoor faucet. If it reads over 80 psi, it’s too high.
How much does it cost to fix high water pressure?
It depends on the cause. A simple pressure regulator adjustment might be inexpensive, but replacing a failing PRV or installing an expansion tank can cost more. A professional inspection can pinpoint the best solution.
Should I be worried about water hammer?
Yes, loud banging pipes (water hammer) are a sign of high pressure. It’s a warning that your pipes could be at risk of leaks or damage.
At Donnie’s Plumbing, we’re here to help keep your plumbing running smoothly. Whether you need a pressure check, a new regulator, or expert advice, we’ve got you covered.
Need help? Contact us today and let’s get your water pressure back to normal!
Please feel free to visit our contact page or in Temecula. For an immediate response contact us at (954)636-0085.