Most Recent: December 31, 1969
Water pressure is one of those household things we don’t think about—until it’s too late. Plumbers in Kerrville, TX, know all too well that water pressure can affect the function and longevity of your plumbing system. In this article, we’ll get into the details of water pressure and what homeowners need to know to keep their plumbing system healthy. 1. What is Water Pressure?Water pressure is the force that pushes water through your pipes and into your faucets, showers and appliances. It’s measured in pounds per square inch (PSI) and is necessary for proper water flow. Low pressure makes everyday tasks like showering or washing dishes a pain, while high pressure can stress your pipes and fixtures. 2. What Causes Low Water Pressure?Several things can cause low water pressure. Clogged pipes from mineral buildup or debris reduce water flow. Leaky pipes or faulty fixtures can cause pressure issues. In some cases, the municipal water supply is to blame, especially if there’s a problem with the water distribution system in your area. 3. What High Water Pressure Does to Your Plumbing While low pressure is a problem, high pressure is just as bad. If the pressure is too high, it can cause pipe joints to loosen or even burst. Over time, high pressure wears out washers, faucets and appliances and shortens their life and increases repair frequency. 4. Signs of High Water Pressure You should recognize the signs of high water pressure before it causes damage. If your faucets are whistling or water is splashing out of your showerhead, you may have too much pressure. If your pipes are vibrating or banging, you may have a pressure issue that needs attention. 5. How to Check Your Water PressureChecking water pressure is easy and can be done with a pressure gauge, which is available at most hardware stores. You attach the gauge to an outdoor faucet, turn the water on and read the measurement. Normal water pressure is between 40-60 PSI. Anything above that is a problem that needs a professional’s attention. 6. How to Fix Low Water Pressure If you have low water pressure, you can try a few things before calling an expert. First, check to see if your water valve is fully open. If that’s not the issue, you may need to inspect your pipes for blockages or mineral deposits, which are common in hard-water areas. If the problem persists, a professional can clear out pipes or replace damaged fixtures. 7. How to Control Flow of WaterIf you have high water pressure, a pressure-reducing valve (PRV) can help control the flow of water. This valve is usually installed where the main water line enters the home. They can adjust or replace the PRV to keep your home’s water pressure within a safe range for your Kerrville, TX, commercial plumbing system. 8. Preventative Measures to Maintain Ideal Water PressurePreventing water pressure issues before they happen is the key to long-term peace of mind. Maintain your plumbing system, check for leaks and flush your water heater annually to prevent buildup. Install water pressure regulators in areas that fluctuate and always hire a licensed expert for maintenance and repairs to keep your system in top shape. Water pressure is crucial to your plumbing system. Whether you have low pressure that makes daily tasks hard or high pressure that’s going to burst your pipes, addressing the issue early will save you from costly repairs later. Maintenance and timely intervention is key to keeping your water pressure ideal. Is your water pressure causing issues at home? Don’t wait for the problem to worsen. Contact a plumbing professional from Kerrville Plumbing Plus at (830) 896-0111 to ensure your water pressure stays at a safe and functional level for your plumbing system. FAQs 1. How often should I check my water pressure? Check your water pressure at least once a year if you’ve noticed any changes in water flow or if you’re experiencing whistling faucets or low water pressure. 2. Can I do it myself? Yes, for simple things like opening the water valve or cleaning faucet aerators, but for pipe blockages or leaks, you’ll need a professional.