How Excessive Water Pressure Instigates Pipe Leaks and Fixture Damage

When you think about plumbing problems at home, you might picture old pipes, clogs, or freezing temperatures as the usual suspects. But one hidden culprit behind pipe leaks and damaged fixtures is excessive water pressure. While a strong water flow makes tasks like showering and washing dishes more efficient, too much water pressure can wear out plumbing systems faster than normal, leading to costly repairs and wasted water.

USA Pipe Repair, the go-to plumber in Richmond, VA, further details issues that can stem from high water pressure, helping homeowners understand and prevent problems before they start.

The Strain of High Water Pressure on Pipes

Water pressure that’s too high puts constant stress on your pipes. Most residential plumbing systems are designed to handle water pressure between 40 to 60 PSI (pounds per square inch). When the pressure goes above this range, the pipes experience more force than they’re built to manage. Over time, this extra mechanical stress can weaken pipe joints, seals, and connections. Small leaks can develop where pipes join together, or tiny cracks can form along the pipe walls. Left unchecked, these leaks often grow bigger, causing water damage to walls, floors, and ceilings.

Damage to Fixtures and Appliances

Faucets, showerheads, dishwashers, and washing machines all have internal parts that regulate water flow. When the pressure is too high, these parts can wear out quickly or break entirely. For example, seals and valves inside faucets may fail, causing drips or sudden bursts of water. Washing machines and dishwashers might develop leaks or stop working properly due to constant high-pressure flow. This shortens the lifespan of these fixtures and puts you in front of frequent repairs or premature replacements.

How to Spot High Water Pressure Issues

Many homeowners don’t know they have high water pressure until something breaks and necessitates plumbing repairs. Signs that your water pressure might be too high include banging or knocking noises in the pipes (known as water hammer), leaking faucets, or running toilets. You might also notice that your water bill is higher than usual. To check your home’s water pressure, you can use an inexpensive pressure gauge that attaches to an outdoor hose spigot.

What You Can Do to Fix It

If you discover that your water pressure is too high, installing a pressure-reducing valve (PRV) can help bring it back to a safe level. A licensed technician from your trusted plumbing company can install and adjust this valve for you. Regular plumbing inspections can also catch early signs of pressure-related wear and tear, saving you from bigger repairs later.

Trust us, worrying about your plumbing system is not overrated. By paying attention to the signs and taking steps to control your home’s water pressure, you can protect your pipes, extend the life of your appliances, and avoid emergency plumbing situations.

USA Pipe Repair offers comprehensive plumbing services designed to keep your plumbing working as efficiently as possible. We bring years of experience to each job, and our team is equipped with the right tools and training to handle any plumbing issue. Call us today or book an appointment through our online form.