Ever stepped into the shower, looking forward to a relaxing end to a long day, only to be greeted by a trickle of water instead of a refreshing stream? While this is incredibly annoying, the grass isn’t always greener on the other side — meaning if your water pressure is too high, it can create long-term damage to pipes, faucets, and appliances. So, what’s the right balance? Today, we’ll explore the best water pressure range for your home and how you can fix low or high water pressure to keep your plumbing safe and efficient.
Water pressure is measured in pounds per square inch (psi), and the best water pressure range for most homes falls between 40 and 80 psi. Within this range, your water should flow efficiently through your pipes without putting excessive strain on your plumbing system or household appliances.
With that range in mind, it’s easy to calculate what would be considered high or low water pressure. For example:
If your home’s water pressure sits comfortably within the 40-80 psi range, congratulations! You’re likely enjoying relaxing showers and sparkling clean dishes (among other things). However, if you find your water pressure lacking or overwhelming, there are steps you can take to address these issues safely.
Testing your home’s water pressure is a quick and simple process that gives you insight into the next steps you need to take (if it’s too high, low, or just right). Here’s how to test water pressure:
Low water pressure can be a frustrating issue, especially if you’re dealing with it in multiple fixtures throughout your home. The good news is that, with the help of a plumbing professional, most causes of low water pressure are easy to fix. Here are a few common culprits and solutions:
Over time, mineral buildup or sediment can clog your pipes and showerheads, leading to reduced water flow. Hard water is often the culprit behind this, as it leaves minerals like calcium and magnesium in your pipes and fixtures. Regularly cleaning or replacing faucet aerators, showerheads, and other fixtures can significantly improve your water pressure.
If the issue lies deeper within your plumbing system, like a clog in the main water line, it may be time to reach out to a professional for plumbing repair in Mount Vernon, WA.
Many homes have a pressure regulator installed on the main water line to keep pressure at a safe, consistent level. If this regulator malfunctions or wears out, your water pressure can dip below the ideal range. A licensed plumber can help check your regulator and, if necessary, replace it to restore normal water pressure.
Leaks are another common cause of low water pressure. If there’s a crack or leak somewhere along your pipes, you’ll lose pressure as water escapes through the damaged section. Check for wet spots on walls, floors, or ceilings, and listen for the sound of water when your taps aren’t running. Fixing leaks quickly can prevent further damage to your home.
Sometimes, the solution is as simple as adjusting the main water valve, which controls the water flowing into your home. If this valve isn’t fully open, it can lower your water pressure. Make sure the valve is turned all the way open, but don’t force it if you encounter resistance, as this could indicate a problem with the valve itself.
While high water pressure might seem like a good thing, it can cause serious issues for your plumbing system, such as broken pipes, leaks, and premature wear on appliances and fixtures. If you suspect your home’s water is beyond the ideal water pressure range, take a look at these steps to correct the issue:
Just as a pressure regulator can help increase low water pressure, it can also reduce high pressure. A pressure regulator, typically installed on your main water line, helps control the flow of water and ensures it doesn’t exceed safe levels. If you already have one and your water pressure is still too high, it might need adjusting. Contacting a plumber to help adjust or install a new one can bring your home’s pressure back to a safe range.
Sometimes, high water pressure can come from appliances or fixtures that don’t regulate the pressure well. For example, if you have an older water heater, it may not be able to handle the water pressure in your home properly, which could lead to increased pressure in your pipes. Regular maintenance and occasional replacement of aging appliances can prevent them from becoming a source of high water pressure.
Whether your home’s water pressure is too low or too high, you need to act right away to protect your plumbing system’s longevity and your family’s comfort. Fortunately, the experts at Skagit Plumbing are here to get your home’s water pressure into that perfect range. We will provide efficient, cost-effective solutions tailored to your specific needs and that keep your plumbing safe and reliable.
Reach out to Skagit Plumbing today to learn more about our services, and let us help you achieve the ideal water pressure rating in your home.