Why Excessive Water Pressure is Not Ideal For Your Home’s Plumbing

High water pressure might seem great, especially when it means quicker filling of sinks and faster showers. What most people don’t realize, however, is that there’s such a thing as too much water pressure, and it can actually be quite damaging to your plumbing system. As the go-to local plumber in Tucson, AZ, RAM Plumbing shares why it’s important to keep water pressure at a safe level for your home.

Damage to Pipes and Fixtures

Water pressure that’s too high causes the pipes in your home to experience extra stress (yes, you’re not the only one who gets stressed out!) Over time, this can weaken the pipes, causing leaks or even bursts—an emergency plumbing situation that no one wants to deal with on a busy day. Or any day at all. This is especially true for older homes with aging pipes that aren’t built to handle the increased strain. Additionally, high pressure can damage faucets, showerheads, and other fixtures, reducing their lifespan and prompting frequent repairs or replacements.

Increased Water Wastage

High water pressure means more water is flowing through your plumbing system than needed. This leads to significant water waste, especially during routine activities such as washing dishes or taking a shower. Aside from increasing your water bill, this also isn’t environmentally friendly. Keeping water pressure at a moderate level (between 40–60 PSI for residential properties) can help conserve water and lower utility costs. Your plumbing company can install a pressure regulator to ensure your home’s water pressure stays within this safe range.

Stress on Water Heater and Appliances

Your water heater and other appliances like dishwashers and washing machines are designed to work optimally under normal water pressure. When the pressure exceeds recommended limits, components and seals can deteriorate faster, leading to leaks and malfunctions. This can result in premature breakdowns and costly replacements for appliances that otherwise could have lasted longer.

A Noisy Plumbing System

Excessive water pressure often leads to increased noise within your plumbing system. This is especially noticeable when you turn on faucets or flush toilets. The loud banging and thumping sounds are known as “water hammer,” caused by the sudden stop of fast-moving water within the pipes. Not only is this noise irritating, but it also indicates that your plumbing system is under strain and at risk of damage, which would necessitate costly plumbing repairs.

RAM Plumbing is the team to call for top-notch plumbing services in Tucson, AZ and the surrounding areas. If you suspect that your home’s water pressure is too high, don’t hesitate to reach out to our certified technicians. We can evaluate your plumbing system and make any necessary adjustments so you can prevent potential issues and have peace of mind. Contact us today to request a service visit.