High Water PressureHigh water pressure can cause several problems in a home and lead to damage to pipes, fixtures, and appliances. It can also increase the cost of energy and water bills. In this article, we will discuss the effects of high water pressure, what a safe water pressure is, how to reduce water pressure, and the installation process of a pressure reducing valve.

Effects of High Water Pressure:

High water pressure in a home can pose several dangers to the plumbing system and household appliances. It can cause leaks and burst pipes, leading to water damage and the need for costly repairs. High water pressure can also put excessive stress on appliances, such as washing machines and dishwashers, and fixtures, such as faucets and showerheads, causing them to wear out prematurely and potentially leading to their failure. In addition to reducing the lifespan of appliances, high water pressure can also increase energy costs. This is because it requires more energy to move water through pipes when the pressure is high. High water pressure can also affect the performance of water heaters, reducing their efficiency and potentially causing them to fail. Furthermore, high water pressure can create water-hammer, which is the banging sound that occurs when water is suddenly shut off in a pipe. Water hammer can cause damage to pipes and fittings, leading to leaks and other problems. It is important to maintain a safe water pressure in the home, typically between 40 and 80 psi, to avoid these dangers and ensure a reliable and efficient plumbing system.

Reduce High Water PressureSafe Water Pressure:

The recommended safe water pressure for a home is between 40 and 80 psi (pounds per square inch). This range provides enough pressure to meet the demands of household appliances and fixtures, while not putting too much stress on the pipes and plumbing system.

Reducing Water Pressure:

There are two common methods to reduce water pressure in a home that will differ depending on whether or not you are connected to a public water supply or to a well. If the home is connected to a public water supply, a pressure reducing valve is a device that can be installed on the main water supply line to reduce the pressure of water entering the home. If the home has a well system, the well pressure switch can be adjusted to reduce the pressure.

Installation of a Pressure Reducing Valve:

Installing a pressure reducing valve is a simple process that can be done by a plumber or a handy homeowner. Here are the steps to install a pressure reducing valve:

  • Turn off the water supply: Turn off the main water supply to the home to prevent any water from flowing through the pipes.
  • Locate the main water supply line: The main water supply line is usually found near the water meter or near the point where the water enters the home.
  • Cut the main water supply line: Cut the main water supply line using a hacksaw and install the pressure reducing valve between the two ends of the cut pipe.
  • Connect the pressure reducing valve: Connect the pressure reducing valve to the main water supply line using compression fittings and Teflon tape.
  • Adjust the pressure reducing valve: Adjust the pressure reducing valve to the desired pressure by turning the adjustment screw. The recommended pressure is between 40 and 80 psi.
  • Turn on the water supply: Turn on the main water supply to the home and check for leaks. If there are no leaks, the installation is complete.

In conclusion, high water pressure can cause several problems in a home and lead to damage to pipes, fixtures, and appliances. It is important to maintain a safe water pressure of between 40 and 80 psi. Installing a pressure reducing valve is a simple process that can be done by a plumber or a handy homeowner and can help reduce water pressure, saving money and avoiding potential damage.

You can see the installation process for a pressure reducing valve here: