Your Plumbing Service Can Help If Your Water Pressure Feels Too High | Carrollton, TX
High water pressure can be beneficial, such as more relaxing and effective showers. However, it can also harm your plumbing fixtures, pipes, and appliances. The ideal water pressure for residential plumbing systems is 40 to 60 PSI (pounds per square inch), with the maximum being 80 PSI. Anything higher stresses the plumbing and causes various problems. Worst of all, high water pressure often goes undetected until it’s too late. If you suspect that the water pressure in your Carrollton, TX, home is too high, it’s important to call a plumbing service to test and correct it as soon as possible.
Why Should I Care About High Water Pressure?
Several issues are bound to creep up on you when water flows through your plumbing at exceedingly high pressure. Think of it like high blood pressure – it’s usually a red flag for possible future disasters. Water pressure is the same way. Here are a few reasons you should care about high pressure.
Damage to Your Pipes
Water is deceptively strong and does its damage gradually. By the time you realize something is wrong, the damage is already done. The strain causes small leaks, which can mean mold growth and structural damage. Without proper mitigation, the strain of too much pressure causes the pipes to burst. Talk to a plumbing service about correcting your water pressure and fixing any leaks in your plumbing, however small, to avoid costly repairs.
Damage to the Water Heater
Most water heaters come with a thermal expansion tank that takes on the extra volume of water, which expands when heated. But if the pressure is consistently high, the water heater may run out of room for the expanding water. This can cause the tank to break at the seam, leading to leaks and destroying the flooring. Contact a plumbing service to fix the leaks in your water heater and double the water pressure as soon as possible.
Wear and Tear on Your Appliances and Fixtures
Water pressure kills appliances. It’ll cut the lifespan of that state-of-the-art dishwasher or washing machine you traded your last paycheck for, and you’ll have to replace it sooner than you think. This wear and tear will also affect other fixtures like toilets, faucets, and shower heads. Regular maintenance checks by a professional plumbing service can ensure that your plumbing fixtures last a long time.
Waste Water and High Water Bills
The high water pressure causes leaks in your piping, showerhead, and other fixtures. It also lets out more water every time you turn on the faucet. This adds up in the long run, and if you have to pay for water, the high pressure could end up being expensive. Have your water bills increased for a while without any conceivable reason? Contact a plumbing service in Carrollton, TX to inspect your system.
What Causes High Water Pressure?
The most common causes of high water pressure in your home include:
High Supply Pressure
Municipalities intentionally set their water systems at a high pressure to ensure adequate pressure to all locations. Normally, homeowners will equip their properties with water pressure regulators to protect their plumbing systems. If the water coming into your exceeds 80 PSI, talk to a plumber about installing a water pressure regulator.
Temperature Changes
Temperature increases in the plumbing system can cause the water to expand and increase the pressure. This is a common problem in homes where the water heater has a defective expansion tank or pressure relief valve. Contact a plumbing service as soon as possible if you suspect a water heater problem.
Low Location
The water pressure may increase naturally as it moves towards your home, especially if your house is located downhill. While there isn’t much you can do about the natural force of gravity, installing a pressure relief valve can protect the plumbing.
Faulty Water Pressure Regulator
Sometimes the problem is as simple as having a faulty water pressure regulator. These devices last for 7-10 years with proper maintenance. Contact a plumbing service to take a look and determine if your water pressure regulator needs replacing.
What Are the Signs of High Water Pressure?
Identifying the signs of high water pressure can be challenging because the damage occurs slowly. However, a few indicators can tell you if the water pressure exceeds what’s considered normal. Don’t hesitate to call a professional plumbing service if you suspect a serious situation.
The following are signs of high water pressure:
High Faucet Pressure
If the water from your kitchen and bathroom faucets seems overly pressurized, you may have a problem on your hands. Faucets sputtering or spraying forcefully from the aerators are also a cause for concern.
Plumbing Leaks
High water pressure causes pipes, fittings, pipe joints, and valves to leak and eventually burst due to the added strain.
High Water Usage
High water pressure translates to more water usage, even when you don’t intend to. This adds up in the long term and results in increased water bills.
Pipes Banging
Banging pipes are the most common symptom of high water pressure. More commonly known as the hammer effect, this symptom occurs when the flow of water is interrupted suddenly, such as when you close the valve. This causes shockwaves in the pipe, creating banging sounds. A plumbing service can implement measures like adding air chambers and water hammer arrestors to mitigate and prevent this problem.
Leaking Fill Valves
Does it sound like your toilet is constantly letting water into the bowl from the cistern? The culprit could be a worn flapper in the bottom of the tank or a leaking fill valve. High water pressure is one of the leading causes of a leaking fill valve. It strains the delicate components that open and close the fill valve. Without proper mitigation, these components eventually give out, and the fill valve starts leaking.
Got a Problem with Your Water Pressure? Contact Us Today!
If you think high water pressure in your Carrollton, TX home may be putting off the plumbing system, let the pros at bluefrog Plumbing + Drain of North Dallas take a look. The longer you wait, the more damage it’ll cause to your pipes, fixtures, and appliances.
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