While most people are concerned about low water pressure, high pressure is a less obvious but equally serious plumbing problem. In fact, excessive water pressure can damage your pipes, shorten the lifespan of your fixtures and appliances, and lead to frequent leaks or expensive repairs.
At Doug the Plumber, we often help homeowners in the Comox Valley identify and correct high water pressure issues. If you’ve noticed banging pipes, spraying faucets, or toilets that run constantly, read on—your plumbing system could be under more stress than you think.
What Is Considered High Water Pressure?
Normal residential water pressure typically ranges from 40 to 60 psi (pounds per square inch). Anything above 80 psi is considered excessive and can lead to damage over time. You can measure your home’s pressure using a simple gauge that attaches to an outdoor faucet. If you’re unsure, a professional can check it for you during a routine inspection.
Signs Your Water Pressure May Be Too High
- Banging or knocking pipes: Also known as “water hammer,” this noise occurs when water flow is suddenly stopped, sending a shockwave through your plumbing.
- Leaky faucets or running toilets: High pressure can wear out seals and valves faster than normal, leading to persistent drips or constant running.
- Appliances wearing out early: Dishwashers, washing machines, and water heaters are all designed to handle standard pressure. Too much force can reduce their lifespan.
- Sudden spurts of water: If your faucets or showerheads spray aggressively when turned on, it could be a sign of high pressure.
- Frequent pipe bursts or joint leaks: Excessive pressure strains your plumbing system and can cause joints to crack or pipes to rupture, especially in older homes.
What Causes High Water Pressure?
- Municipal supply pressure: In some areas, especially near large buildings or hills, the municipal water supply may be delivered at a higher pressure than your home needs.
- Thermal expansion: When water heats up in your tank-style water heater, it expands. Without proper controls in place, this can increase pressure within your plumbing system.
- Faulty or missing pressure-reducing valve (PRV): Many homes have a PRV installed near the main shutoff to help regulate incoming pressure. If yours fails or is missing, high pressure can go unchecked.
How to Fix High Water Pressure
The most effective solution is to install or replace a pressure-reducing valve. This device automatically reduces the pressure from the municipal line to a safe level for your home. It should be installed by a licensed plumber, especially if adjustments to your main water line are needed.
You might also consider adding an expansion tank to your water heater to absorb pressure increases caused by heating. This helps maintain safe levels and reduces stress on your system.
Regular maintenance is important, too. Even with a PRV in place, we recommend checking your home’s pressure annually, particularly if you’ve had plumbing problems in the past.
Preventing Future Pressure Problems
Regular maintenance goes a long way in avoiding water pressure issues. Here are a few homeowner-friendly tips:
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Flush your water heater once a year to remove sediment buildup.
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Install a water softener if you have hard water to reduce mineral deposits.
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Keep an eye on your water bills for unexplained increases.
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Book a plumbing inspection every two years to catch corrosion, leaks, or pressure problems early.
Need Help? We’re Just a Call Away
Low water pressure doesn’t have to be something you live with—and it shouldn’t be ignored. Small issues can lead to larger plumbing problems if left unchecked. Whether it’s a simple fix or something deeper in your system, we’re here to help.
Call us Today!
Doug the Plumber
Schedule a pressure check and get your home’s water flowing the way it should.
Serving Courtenay, Comox, Cumberland, and the surrounding communities.