It‘s a fact that homeowner’s will seldom complain about higher than normal water pressure. Unfortunately, high water pressure can be causing significant damage to your plumbing in Fort Worth. It is a major causative factor behind water leaks, pipe damage, structural damage of the home and wasted water. In the following you will learn how to identify the signs of high water pressure, and the damage it can cause. If you suspect high water pressure, contact a Benjamin Franklin plumber in Fort Worth.
The Cause
A common cause of excessive water pressure is the municipal water supplier. The pressure is set to meet the needs of the system, such as delivering water to fire hydrants, to buildings at high elevation or with extreme height and for other reasons. Depending on the requirements for the delivery of water, the water pressure may be 150 psi or higher. However, the maximum recommended pressure for a home is 80 psi, therefore requiring a means of reducing the pressure before it enters the home. Pressure regulators are commonly used to reduce the incoming pressure. However, they will corrode and require periodic replacement. A plumber in Fort Worth can provide the installation and replacement.
Thermal expansion is a potential cause of increased pressure within the plumbing system. As water is heated it tends to expand, and in a closed plumbing system results in elevated pressure. A Ben Franklin plumber in Fort Worth can provide the installation of an expansion tank to prevent elevated pressure in the hot water system.
The Effects
Over time, high water pressure contributes to pipe erosion, reducing the expected lifespan of plumbing, water using appliances, faucets and the water heater. Furthermore, it can contribute to the occurrence of water hammer.
High water pressure works against the protective effects of air chambers in the plumbing system, and when water is suddenly stopped, water hammer occurs with the potential for damage to pipe joints, valves and fixtures.
The Signs
The symptoms of high water pressure include:
- Leaks, especially multiple leaks including pipes, fixtures and faucets
- Water hammer
- Increased water bills
- The noticeable increase in water pressure in taps and showers
- Running toilets
Testing Water Pressure
Testing the water pressure is a simple task using a low cost pressure gauge available from your local hardware store. The gauge simply screws onto an outdoor faucet. You turn the water on and the pressure is displayed. Water pressure in an acceptable range is 80 psi. This test only reveals an incoming high water pressure and will not indicate other causes of high pressure in the plumbing system. Contact a Benjamin Franklin Plumbing plumber in Fort Worth for water pressure problems and repair.
The Solution
The installation of a pressure regulator ensures the water pressure coming from the municipal supply is reduced to a safe level. When the regulator is placed at the meter, rather than the entrance to the home, the regulator provides protection to the home’s water supply line to the house and the irrigation system.
Depending on water chemistry and soil characteristics, and other factors, on average a pressure regulator will last approximately 10 to 15 years. If you are experiencing the signs of high water pressure, test the pressure to ensure the regulator is functioning properly.
A Benjamin Franklin Plumbing plumber in Fort Worth can identify the source of your home’s high water pressure and provide the necessary plumbing repair. Our licensed plumbers possess the expertise to meet and/or exceed the industry standards for plumbing you can rely on. Benjamin Franklin Plumbing serves Fort Worth, Arlington and the surrounding areas, and is a member of the BBB with an A+ rating.