Why Does My Home’s Water Pressure Matter?

Water pressure problems are often viewed as more of a home comfort issue than an urgent situation that requires emergency repair services from a local Arlington plumber. Low water pressure, the more common of the pressure problems, is most commonly associated with reduced functionality and quality of life. High water pressure poses more of an actual risk for appliance damage if it’s not addressed.

In either case, water pressure is one of those home attributes that can have a surprisingly dramatic effect on your day-to-day life. Despite water pressure impacting virtually every activity that involves home plumbing, many Arlington homeowners choose to simply tolerate their water pressure problems, often because they don’t realize there is a solution.

What Is Proper Home Water Pressure?

Residential water pressure between 40 and 60 PSI is considered typical. There are a variety of factors that can influence variations in a home’s water pressure, including things like the municipal supply of water going to your home, your home’s distance from the source, elevation changes and the size and condition of your home’s pipes.

Signs and Symptoms of Low Water Pressure

• Weak Faucet Flow: A noticeable decrease in the water stream from kitchen and bathroom faucets.
• Ineffective Showers: Shower heads failing to deliver a strong, steady spray, leading to longer and less satisfying showers.
• Slow-Filling Appliances: Washing machines and dishwashers taking longer to fill, which can delay cycles and extend operation times.
• Fluctuating Temperatures: Inconsistent water temperature during use, often due to inadequate pressure to sustain the mix of hot and cold water.
• Toilet Fill Time: Toilets taking longer to refill after flushing, indicating low pressure in the supply line.
• Inadequate Outdoor Watering: Garden hoses or sprinkler systems lacking strength and coverage area, affecting lawn and garden maintenance.
• Impact on Water Heaters: Reduced efficiency in water heaters, as they take longer to refill and reheat.
• Multiple Fixture Impact: Simultaneous use of multiple fixtures (like a shower and kitchen sink) resulting in noticeable drops in water pressure.

These symptoms can greatly impact daily routines and tasks. For instance, a shower under low pressure becomes less effective and less enjoyable. Low pressure may also lengthen the necessary time members of your household have to use the shower, slowing down everyone waiting in line for access each morning if multiple members of a household are sharing the bathroom.

Water pressure is one of those home attributes that has a profound impact on quality of life but is commonly ignored. Addressing water pressure issues may enhance overall comfort. After it’s been resolved, you’ll likely wonder why you waited so long before calling an Arlington plumber. 

The Downside of High Water Pressure

High water pressure is less common in homes than low water pressure, but its effects on your home’s plumbing and appliances can be more serious. Low water pressure is typically just an inconvenience, but high water pressure can potentially cause damage over time.

• Excessive pressure can strain pipes, joints and fixtures, increasing the risk of leaks and bursts.
• Appliances such as washing machines, dishwashers and water heaters can degrade due to constant pressure, reducing their efficiency and lifespan.
• High pressure often leads to greater water flow and usage, inadvertently inflating water bills.
• High pressure can cause banging or knocking sounds in pipes, known as "water hammer".
• Over time, the extra pressure can damage seals and valves, resulting in drips and leaks.

Diagnosing Water Pressure Problems

1. Check Pressure Readings: Use a pressure gauge to measure the water pressure at a faucet.
2. Inspect for Visible Leaks: Look for leaks in exposed pipes, faucets and fixtures that can affect pressure.
3. Evaluate Pipe Condition: Old or corroded pipes can restrict flow, leading to pressure issues.
4. Assess the Pressure Regulator: If your home has one, a failing pressure regulator can cause fluctuations in water pressure.
5. Contact Your Water Utility Provider: If you’re an Arlington homeowner, you may want to contact the city’s Water Utilities office.
6. Consult a Professional: For complex or persistent issues, call Tom’s Mechanical. Our plumbers can provide a thorough diagnosis and solution.

How Can a Plumber Fix Water Pressure Problems in Arlington Homes?

• Adjusting the Pressure Regulator: If your home has a pressure regulator, adjusting it can solve both high water pressure and low water pressure problems.
• Repairing Leaks: If leaks in your home’s plumbing are causing drops in pressure, fixing the leaks in pipes, faucets or fixtures can often restore proper pressure.
• Pipe Maintenance: Replacing or repairing old, corroded pipes may improve water flow.
• Installing Pressure-Reducing Valves: These valves can be installed by plumbers to maintain a consistent level of water pressure in homes where high water pressure is an issue.

Unfortunately, solving water pressure problems isn’t typically a DIY job. There are a variety of potential causes for high or low water pressure, and it often requires a trained plumber with the proper equipment to accurately diagnose the root cause and implement an effective solution.

Get Help Diagnosing and Fixing Your Arlington Home’s Water Pressure Problems

The licensed plumbers at Tom’s Mechanical are always available to diagnose and fix the water pressure problems plaguing Arlington households. Call us at 817-277-4493 to schedule an assessment of your water pressure problems.