Understanding High Water Pressure Effects on Plumbing

When the water pressure is too high, it can affect pipes and plumbing systems.

Homeowners always want decent water pressure. It makes showers more comfortable and everyday tasks, like doing the dishes, easier and quicker. However, if the water pressure is too high, it can cause problems with a home's plumbing.

Please keep reading to learn the negative effects of high water pressure on plumbing systems.

What counts as excessive water pressure?

Water pressure exceeding a home's safe and recommended levels is too high or excessive. Specifically, that's when the water exceeds the value of 80 PSI (pounds per square inch).

The damaging effects of high water pressure

When the water pressure is too high, it can affect pipes and plumbing systems. This can lead to various challenges, risks, and costs for homeowners.

Damage to the pipes

While plumbing pipes are strong and sturdy, they aren't immune to damage. If the water flowing through them is too quick and powerful, it will gradually wear down the pipe walls from within.

Eventually, those weaknesses can turn into little cracks, leading to leaks that can cause problems in the bathroom and beyond.

Wear and tear to appliances

Many home appliances, such as washing machines or dishwashers, need water. And just like the pipes, they're not built to withstand excessive pressure forever. High pressure can wear them out over time, reducing their lifespan and causing more issues than normal.

This leads to recurring repair costs and frustration for homeowners when the appliances don't work as intended.

Leaking faucets

High pressure also affects faucets. The force of the water damages the gaskets and seals designed to prevent faucets from leaking. Those gaskets will crack and split with regular use, and the faucets will start dripping.

This results in wasted water, higher bills for homeowners to pay each month, and even more frustration.

Noises in the system

Another common side effect of excessive water pressure is loud pipe noise. Typically, homeowners report banging sounds, technically known as water hammer. This occurs due to the fast-moving, high-pressure water flowing through the pipes.

Those noises are more than just a minor annoyance. They are signs that the system is being weakened and damaged, raising the risk of leaks and even whole home floods in the worst case.

Get a professional fix for high-pressure problems

There are many risks and issues associated with excessive water pressure. But luckily, plumbing pros can take steps to fix it, like fitting a pressure valve or adjusting the pressure gauge. Contact specialists in the local area to schedule water pressure improvements.
Frontier Plumbing of Las Vegas is a full-service commercial and residential plumbing company offering a full spectrum of plumbing services. We are determined to exceed your expectations! Call 702-602-6705 today!