The water that flows through your pipes is naturally under pressure. The municipal supply feeds it into your home this way in order for you to have running water, so it’s actually a good thing. However, the pipes in your walls need to be able to contain this pressure, and old, rusted, or corroded plumbing could eventually fail, resulting in a pipe burst. That being said, too much pressure in your pipes could expedite a pipe failure, so it’s important to lower the pressure going through your plumbing if it’s too high.
Lowering Your Water Pressure
High water pressure is great for homeowners in a lot of cases. For starters, you’ll never have to worry about a weak shower in the morning or your appliances working ineffectively. However, the plumbing in your walls may disagree. When you shut off every water fixture in your home, this pressure builds up and starts pushing against the sides of your pipes. Over time, this pressure combined with corrosion could lead to a catastrophic failure.
Is your pressure too high? The first sign is that your pipes are developing leaks frequently, particularly around pipe joints or corners. Naturally, these are the weakest spots in your plumbing, and too much pressure will eventually cause leaks in these locations. Second, purchase a hose bib gauge from your local hardware store and connect it as the instructions indicate. You should get a reading anywhere between 40 and 85 PSI, anything above that needs serviced soon. Keep in mind that your shower and faucets don’t actually lower water pressure, but control how much water is dispensed over time.
This means you’ll have to install a pressure regulator on your water supply line. These devices work by controlling the pressure of the water that flows through them to keep it even and consistent. However, if your whole home is struggling with high water pressure, then you should have a professional Bartlett plumber perform the installation.
Soften Your Water
If you live in an area with hard water, your plumbing is also taking a beating from water deposits. Magnesium and calcium can build up, which restricts the flow of water and leads to even more pressure. Check your shower heads, faucets, and any other plumbing fixtures for white buildup or staining that may indicate hard water. If you do, the best thing you can do for your home is to install a water softener, which can reduce deposit levels and help keep your pipes clean, clear, and flowing freely.
If you experience a serious plumbing issue or want to know more about installing a water softener system in your home, contact Smith’s Plumbing Services to schedule an appointment today!