Last Updated on April 14, 2022 by Kravelv
Many people are excited when they find out they have high water pressure, some of which are proud of the fact. Nobody wants water to trickle out of their faucets. Most people want substantial pressure when they take a shower. Higher water pressure helps aid in getting things, and people clean faster.
Some cities have higher water pressure than others and depending on where your house is within the town the water pressure can change significantly. Here in Southern California, there are noticeable differences between cities. Parts of Eastvale and Corona have very high water pressure, while some areas of Riverside the pressure is on the low spectrum of the scale. If you don’t know what your water pressure is, it is a good idea to have it tested and ensure your water pressure regulator is working correctly.
Why does this matter?
The high water pressure coming into your home can cause problems with your plumbing fixtures. You may not notice right away, but over time, high water pressure takes a toll on the life of your water heater, faucets, toilets, and valves. The most common issues we see are the washers and fittings wear out faster over time when you have high water pressure.
“We often see issues in some cities that have high water pressure. It would help if you had a pressure regulator that is working correctly to reduce the pressure and help prevent expensive plumbing repairs,” explains Billy Henley, who manages plumbers in San Bernardino for BHI Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning.
What is a Pressure Regulator?
A water pressure regulator is a device that slows down the rate of flow of the water coming into your property. You will want the range to be between 45-65 PSI. Once your water pressure starts getting above 70 is cause for concern.
Why can this be costly?
When your plumbing fixtures wear out twice as fast as normal, you will need to replace those specific fixtures. Water heaters can easily last for 10-15 years with proper maintenance and water pressure. However, if one of these is off, then you are cutting down the life expectancy. Water heaters are not cheap to replace, and if you cannot install it yourself, then you are looking at a costly install. Depending on the size of your water heater and the location at the house, the price can range from $1,200 to $2,500.
When the washers start wearing out on sink faucets, it can cause problems with leaking. You may be able to replace the washer, and the faucet could work fine. However, many customers, at that point, choose to replace their valves completely.
How to Test?
Most plumbing companies are more than happy to come out and provide your home with a free plumbing inspection. During the inspection, they will test your water pressure as well as check out your home’s plumbing. A plumbing inspection is a valuable resource that most homeowners should utilize. In the long run, this could save a homeowner from potential costly damages.