Plumbers in Arlington, Texas

High Water Pressure

Sooner or later you will have to replace an appliance in your home, and if you already have then you know they are not cheap. Long gone are the days when you could replace a washer/dryer combo for $400 and have appliances you could count on to last for 7-10 years. Today, you really do get what you pay for, and that means appliances are an investment. When you consider the cost of today’s appliances, you want to do everything you can to make them last.

Water pressure is a subject people seldom think of unless it is too low. Rarely does anyone complain that their water pressure is too high, that is, until it damages an appliance and they are stuck with a very large bill for repair. It does happen, it happened to me when I was at the end of my warranty which covered the first visit, after that the cost of repairs was on my wallet.

After the third service call on my appliance the technician performed a water pressure test and found mine was 150 psi, which was significantly beyond the recommended amount! That was the reason why I had to have two ice makers, three valves and 4 water lines installed inside of two months. The high pressure also ruptured the glass inside of my hot water heater and completely blew through the solid brass of a $200 kitchen faucet. It had apparently been high for an unknown amount of time.

Recommended pressure will vary by municipality, your water works department will be able to tell you the recommended psi for your area. In my case, what I learned is that my refrigerators manufacturer recommended a maximum psi of 50.

The 15 year old pressure reducing valve (PRV) or water pressure regulator attached to my water meter had to be replaced, and being buried in the ground I now plan on replacing it every ten years. Frankly, I am amazed that my washing machine hoses didn’t rupture. Washing machine hoses are typically the first thing to go when the pressure climbs. We don’t use your typical washing machine hoses, but instead use automotive radiator heater hose and they last, apparently better than a top brand solid brass faucet.

Water supply lines are also vulnerable to high water pressure, as are the appliances in the home. With a low flow shower head we had not noticed the pressure being elevated, nor did we take notice in other faucets. The pressure must have gradually climbed over time, not enough for us to notice it. It was a costly overlook and now when our drains are inspected and cleaned annually, we have a pressure test performed. The cost is negligible compared to the $4,000 the malfunctioning PRV ended up costing us in damaged appliances, faucet and water supply lines. The peace of mind from an annual maintenance by a plumber is priceless.

Recognizing the signs and a routine water pressure check can prevent costly damage to your plumbing, your home and your appliances. The following are potential signs of an elevated water pressure and malfunctioning pressure relief valve or pressure regulator.

• Leaks
• Banging pipes (also called water hammer)
• Dishwasher and washing machine noise

Benjamin Franklin Plumbing-Fort Worth will be happy to provide a water pressure test on your plumbing. Our licensed plumbers in Arlington, Texas and Fort Worth are among the best in the industry. Our 100% guaranteed satisfaction ensures you will receive a punctual plumber and impeccable superior plumbing service by the dedicated plumbers of Benjamin Franklin Plumbing. Available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, we are always there for you guaranteed.