High water pressure in the shower or kitchen faucet is a welcome experience. However, it increases the rate of wear on your plumbing system, leading to leaks, pipe bursts, and costly replacements if left unattended. According to industry experts, normal water pressure in residential plumbing should range between 40 and 80 psi, but you can aim for around 50 to 70 psi for a good balance. It is advisable to consult a professional plumber in Atlantic City, NJ and schedule routine inspections to maintain safe water pressure and optimal efficiency. Let’s delve into the symptoms of high water pressure to help you act quickly.
Leaking Plumbing Lines
While high water pressure is ideal in certain situations, it puts unnecessary strain on your pipes and fixtures. This often leads to hairline cracks, loose joints, and worn valves. If you notice persistent dripping or stagnant water near your plumbing fixtures, then chances are your system is leaking. Additionally, some leaks occur behind walls and floors, causing structural issues, fungus growth, and health hazards. The best way to avoid such scenarios is to schedule routine leak detection services. Professionals can pinpoint the cause of plumbing leaks and adjust the water pressure to prevent costly repairs.
Water Hammer
Another obvious sign of high water pressure is a loud banging noise when you switch off a bathroom or kitchen faucet. This is known as “water hammer,” or hydraulic shock, mainly due to its resemblance to a pounding hammer. The main culprit is high water pressure changing direction or stopping abruptly, causing pipes to bang into one another or surrounding frames. In addition, water hammer can break pipes and loosen connections, prompting immediate intervention to prevent further damage. Once you hear loud banging from your plumbing, call a plumbing repair service quickly to get ahead of the problem.
Damaged Appliances
High water pressure is hard on your plumbing lines and appliances like washing machines, water heaters, and dishwashers. With that in mind, manufacturers often state that water pressure damage on appliances can void warranties. Conduct routine leak detections and listen for weird noises by your appliances, as they indicate overwhelmed mechanical parts and seals. If you notice signs of extreme wear and tear on your appliances, water pressure may be the cause. Consult a trusted plumber to inspect, diagnose, and address the problem effectively.
High Utility Bills
As a homeowner, you can keep track of your monthly water bills easily by monitoring your usage. If you get a higher utility bill than usual, high water pressure is likely the cause. As mentioned, normal water pressure in residential plumbing systems is between 40 and 80 psi, but this can vary depending on your needs. It is advisable to regularly check the water pressure in your plumbing system, as it can save you a lot of money and preserve this vital resource.
Leaking Faucets
Nothing is more frustrating than a spraying or spitting faucet when you turn on the water. This is a common problem that indicates high water pressure from your faucets. Additionally, excess pressure can overwhelm the seals, causing dripping and water damage. While minor leaks may not raise concerns initially, they can cause high utility bills and costly repairs in the future.
When dealing with high water pressure, early intervention is vital to prevent water wastage and damage. Contact Mr. Rooter Plumbing and schedule an appointment with our experts. As a reputable plumbing repair service, we can have a licensed technician at your door in no time, addressing your water pressure needs effectively. Let us help you maintain safe water pressure without compromising the integrity of your plumbing infrastructure or breaking the bank.
