High water pressure may feel good while taking a shower or filling the tub. But it can wreak havoc on your home’s plumbing system. You won’t notice the effects of it overnight (which is why it’s often considered harmless), but it can create several plumbing problems over time.

Here’s a quick rundown of what high water pressure can do to your plumbing system to help you understand why it needs fixing.

The Adverse Effects of High Water Pressure

When water pressure remains consistently high, you can experience one or more of the following issues:

1.     Pipe Damage

Water flowing through the pipes at a higher speed for a consistently long period can damage the pipes more quickly.

2.     Water Hammer

The hammering sound that comes from your water pipes when you shut off a faucet indicates high water pressure. This is not only annoying but also damages and can also break the pipe joints.

3.     Leaks

The damage that pipes and joints incur due to high-pressure water significantly increases the risk of plumbing leaks.

4.     Higher Risk of Plumbing Emergencies

High water pressure can also make your pipes burst, causing a plumbing emergency that not only creates a mess in your home but will also likely require costly repairs.

5.     Decreased Lifespan of Appliances

It may come as a surprise to many, but consistently high water pressure can damage water-using home appliances, such as the dishwasher, washing machine, and even the water heater. This makes them more susceptible to developing faults and can also reduce their lifespan, causing them to fail earlier than they should.

6.     Water Waste

High pressure is a common cause of water waste that can increase your bill by up to 30%. It’s important to note that high pressure can increase your water consumption even if there are no leaks or cracks in your plumbing system.

How to Know Your Home’s Water Pressure is High?

While several signs may indicate high water pressure, the best way to find it is through a water pressure gauge. It’s readily available at hardware stores and easy to use. All you have to do is to attach the water pressure gauge to a faucet closest to where the water line enters your home. Turn off all other water sources in your home, and then turn on the faucet with the gauge attached to it all the way to the maximum. Note the reading on the gauge. It should be between 40 and 80 psi.

If your home’s water pressure is higher than 80 pounds per square inch (psi), call an experienced plumber from Steve Huff Plumbing to fix it.