Your entire plumbing system has “pressure,” which helps to push the water through where it needs to flow when you turn on your faucet or flush a toilet. The force pushing the water is your water pressure, and many people can feel when something is off with it, but that is usually when the problem has already escalated. Oftentimes, homeowners notice when their water pressure drops, but it’s important to note that high water pressure can also cause damage and additional plumbing problems. Regular pressure checks can help prevent pressure problems, whether they are serious or mild. These checks will also help detect issues early in the plumbing system. Let’s dive deeper into why pressure checks are essential for home plumbing health and what happens when you experience water pressure fluctuations.
What is Water Pressure?
Water pressure is more scientific than many people realize, and it is the backbone of how modern-day plumbing systems work. Water pressure is measured in PSI (pounds per square inch) and indicates the force per square inch. Typically, a healthy water pressure is between 40 and 60 PSI, indicating a normal range. Fluctuations in water pressure can be normal, as they are often experienced during seasonal or municipal changes. Still, it can also signal a plumbing problem, warranting a visit from a professional.
What Happens if You Have High Water Pressure?
If you are experiencing high water pressure, you might not immediately notice that something is off, as many people notice lower water pressure more easily than higher. However, if you notice high water pressure, it’s crucial to get it addressed sooner rather than later to avoid extensive damage to your plumbing system.
Pipe Damage
You can experience pipe damage from water pressure, which puts much more stress on joints and fittings. It can also lead to leaks and an increased risk of burst pipes, which can be detrimental to your plumbing system. Water pressure can be quite abrasive, so addressing a high water pressure issue early can avoid pipe damage.
Effects on Appliances
Appliances that use water, such as washing machines and dishwashers, can experience more wear and tear with high water pressure. These appliances are not designed to handle high water pressure, so their components could be damaged if you have it.
High Utility Bill
Your water bill will likely fluctuate, as you will use more water when water pressure is high. The pressure pushes out more water in the same amount of time, meaning that if you take a 10-minute shower, you’ll use more water than you would with normal water pressure. An increase in your water bill that you can’t explain could potentially indicate an underlying issue.
What Happens if You Have Low Water Pressure?
Many people will notice it more easily when they experience low water pressure, which means it is typically caught earlier. Like high water pressure, some issues can arise, or possibly have already happened, if you are experiencing low water pressure. Let’s look more into what happens if you do have low water pressure:
Underlying Plumbing Issues
If you have low water pressure, it could indicate underlying plumbing issues that need to be addressed. These issues could be mineral buildup, leaks, corrosion, and failing pressure regulators. These issues need to be addressed as soon as possible to avoid detrimental effects to your plumbing system.
Poor Performance
If you are filling up the sink or bathtub or even washing your hands, the water pressure is low. Your sinks and tubs may fill up much more slowly, and you may experience lower water pressure when washing your hands. Weak showers and water hoses can also indicate low water pressure.
Why Are Water Pressure Checks Essential?
Water pressure checks might seem simple, but they can be a crucial part of maintaining your plumbing’s health. Catching problems early will help extend the life of your plumbing system by addressing issues before they escalate. Ensuring your water pressure is in normal ranges will also help to protect your appliances, prevent water damage, and improve the overall efficiency of your plumbing system. Additionally, you’ll save money on repairs and utilities as you deal with less damage and use less water, keeping utility bills at bay.
How Water Pressure Checks Are Done
A water pressure check is done using your outdoor hose spigot with a pressure gauge. The gauge will tell the plumber what your water pressure is based on its PSI, which will indicate whether it is in the normal range, high, or low. Your plumber will do a plumbing inspection, especially if the reading comes back high or low, to check for leaks, ensure pressure balance, and look for any signs that something might be off. A water pressure check should be done annually to enable early detection and prevent expensive, critical repairs.
A Simple Check for Better Plumbing Health
A water pressure check is a simple way to ensure your plumbing is healthy and free of underlying issues. Either a professional plumber or you, the homeowner, can check your water pressure to determine if it is sitting within a normal range. If you find that the PSI reading is low or high, it’s crucial to contact a professional as soon as possible to address the issue causing the water pressure fluctuations. Early detection is crucial for plumbing health, as many problems worsen the longer they are left untreated, making it essential to check water pressure annually. Your plumbing is an important part of your home, so keep it in good health by doing regular pressure checks and addressing any issues early.