Having high water pressure at home offers several advantages.
It can ensure a great showering experience, make appliances work more efficiently, and help reduce water bills, as faucets and taps do not need to be kept on for long. Water flowing at excessive pressure can also prevent debris from accumulating in the plumbing system, reducing the chances of blocked pipes.
However, such advantages can only be enjoyed if the pressure remains within reasonable limits. When this pressure becomes too high, many problems can occur, such as leaks, appliance damage, and even considerable strain on the entire plumbing system.
Such problems are unpredictable and can occur anytime; you may not be sure which problems might arise. That’s where this guide can come in handy. Here, we’ve answered some common questions, including whether excessive water pressure can damage a pipe. So, let’s begin!
How Does Water Pressure Affect Pipes?
The maximum recommended water pressure in homes is 500 kPa, and higher pressure is more likely to cause problems.
Water flowing continuously at high pressure can erode plumbing pipes and other fixtures very quickly. It can also reduce the life span and performance of faucets, sinks, washing machines, and toilets. Extremely pressurised water can even cause plumbing fixtures to leak since their stoppers cannot prevent the water from forcing its way through.
High water pressure also results in the water hammer effect. Usually, when water fixtures with regular water pressure are turned off, the air chambers within keep the pipes protected when the water stops. However, in cases of highly pressurised water, the effect of these chambers is negated by the water hammer effect.
This causes damage to essential water pipe joints, fixture heads, and valves. In addition to the failure of such fixtures, high water pressure can lead to pipes bursting when they cannot contain the water. Generally, this happens where the water pipe’s joint is the weakest.
While an experienced plumber can repair these, it is better to avoid such damage in the first place.
Other Problems Due To High Water Pressure
High water pressure can damage your home’s plumbing system and cause other problems. Even if the pipes do not burst, they may start to leak, leading to the wastage of a large quantity of water. Leaks can also lead to problems such as mould growth and structural damage, resulting in high monthly bills.
Also, continuous high water pressure can affect the working of appliances like water heaters and dishwashers and even shorten their life. Similarly, plumbing problems like a running toilet are common in households with extremely high water pressure. This is caused when the fill valve becomes damaged due to the high water pressure.
Identifying High Water Pressure
Certain signs can indicate a high water pressure problem. Paying attention to such signs can save a lot of hassle later on and help address issues before they become too severe. Some of the ways by which you can identify high water pressure issues include:
1. Using A Home Water Pressure Gauge
Certain signs can indicate a high water pressure problem. Paying attention to such signs can save a lot of hassle later on and help address issues before they become too severe. Some of the ways by which you can identify high water pressure issues include:
1. Using A Home Water Pressure Gauge
A home water pressure gauge monitors the pressure of the water that flows into your home, making it easy to know the water pressure. If it shows that the pressure is too high, you can adjust the pressure or call a plumber to do the same.
2. Leaks Near Pipes And Other Fixtures
If you find leaks in faucets, taps, or other fixtures, the water pressure in the area is extremely high. In that case, it’s a good idea to call a plumber, as high water pressure can lead to corroded pipes over time.
3. High Water Bills
If your water bills are high, even with minimal water usage, it may indicate the problem of high water pressure. Do not wait to call a plumbing professional, as that can only cause the pipes to erode further.
High water pressure can also contribute to other plumbing issues, such as tree roots infiltrating the pipes or problems during cold weather when temperature drops. Addressing these high water pressure problems can help prevent more severe and costly plumbing issues.
By being proactive and monitoring the signs of high water pressure, you can take the necessary steps to protect your plumbing system and avoid the headaches and expenses associated with burst pipes, water damage, and other plumbing-related problems.
Don’t Let Water Pressure Cost You!
High water pressure can lead to several problems, a burst pipe being just one. Leaks, appliance malfunctions, and other issues can all be prevented if they are detected promptly. With the techniques mentioned above, detecting the problem well in time can be possible.
While some problems caused by high water pressure can be solved on your own, most require the skills and experience of a professional plumber. That’s why having a reliable plumber’s contact number is always a good idea. For expert plumbers in Perth who can assist you with water pressure, pipe damage, and plumbing emergencies, call us! The Woolf Plumbing & Gas team can help you identify the issue and provide a fast and affordable solution!
With that, it’s a wrap. Goodbye!
