Are you wondering, “Why is my water pressure so high?” It may mean that the water pressure coming into your house is too high. While this might make for a great shower, it isn't as good for your water bill. What's more, high water pressure can put extra stress on your pipes and can even lead to leaks.

Fortunately, there are tricks to identifying the problem and solutions for repair!

Follow this guide to identify high water pressure in your home and avoid damage that can result from it.

How Do I Know If My House Water Pressure Is Too High?

The easiest way to identify if your water is high pressure is by simple observation – if it seems like water is coming out of your sink at excessive (or higher than normal) pressure, it's worth checking into.

Another potential indicator is if you hear banging somewhere in your pipes (also known as a water hammer). To find out for sure, buy a pressure gauge and screw it onto an outlet hose or faucet near your water meter.

Most home plumbing systems are not equipped to handle pressure above 80 psi, so if yours exceeds the limit, you should seek a remedy. Pressure can fluctuate throughout the day, so take readings at various times to give yourself a more complete set of data.

Additional symptoms of high water pressure in a house include:

  • The faucets spit out water when turned on.
  • Your water heater needs frequent maintenance or repair.
  • Your washing machine or dishwasher is leaking or noisy.
  • Toilets are constantly running.
  • Utility bills have spiked.

What Are the Consequences If Water Pressure Is Too High in a House?

Can high water pressure cause leaky faucets? Yes. In fact, tiny pinhole leaks are the most common effect of high water pressure. But even a small leak can lead to much bigger problems if it occurs in a spot where it can damage your walls or floor. This can result in extensive water damage and lead to mold growth.

Other major consequences include:

  • Appliance damage
  • Long-term expenses due to appliance repairs and higher utility bills
  • Major pipe leaks
  • Plumbing replacements
  • Flooding

If you do experience water or mold damage in your home due to leaks from high water pressure, count on our sister brands DRYMedic and STOP Restoration for water and mold damage restoration. 

What Causes High Water Pressure?

Do you live at the bottom of a hill? That's a common cause of high water pressure because water naturally runs downhill. Your local water utility might also keep the pressure high in your area to meet the needs of tall buildings or fire hydrants. High pressure can additionally be caused by thermal expansion inside your home as the water volume changes due to heating by your water heater.

How to Fix High Water Pressure in a House

Even if your water pressure only occasionally shoots over the 80 psi mark, it's a good idea to install a pressure regulator on your main water line. The regulator will slow down the flow entering your home and keep the pressure at reasonable levels. That way you can avoid paying for excess water you don't need, as well as saving wear and tear on your plumbing system.

To make sure that the issue is fully diagnosed and resolved, call your local Benjamin Franklin Plumbing for a plumbing inspection and diagnosis services. Our experts will:

  • Determine the root of the issue.
  • Correct any damage that has resulted from it.
  • Present a preventive maintenance plan to avoid issues in the future.

Related Content: 7 Signs It’s Time for a New Water Heater

Under High Water Pressure? Let the Experts Help

Notice any of these symptoms of high water pressure in your home? Don’t let it get out of hand! Count on the experts at Benjamin Franklin Plumbing to diagnose and repair the issue before further damage occurs. Call 1-877-BEN-1776 or request an appointment online to get started.