A Plumber Explains Why High Water Pressure Is Not Good
At Jet Plus Plumbing, we have seen firsthand the damage that high water pressure can cause to a plumbing system.
While many homeowners believe that having high water pressure is a good thing, it can actually lead to leaks, burst pipes, and a plumbing emergency.
It’s important to understand the problems that high water pressure can cause.
When the water pressure is too high, it puts extra strain on your pipes, fittings, and appliances. Over time, this can cause leaks, burst pipes, and damage to your plumbing system.
Think of it like your own body – High blood pressure can lead to a stroke which is when a blood vessel bursts.
High water pressure does a similar thing to your plumbing where something will eventually burst or start leaking.
By knowing the signs of high water pressure, you can have the pressure adjusted and keep your plumbing system in good condition.
The Problems That High Water Pressure Causes
High water flow can wreak havoc on your pipes and appliances, leading to costly repairs and higher water bills. It us one of the key things we check when we do a plumbing inspection.
Pipe damage: Excessive water pressure can put a strain on the pipes. Over time, this can lead to leaks, cracks, or even burst pipes. The constant pressure can weaken the structural integrity of the pipes, causing them to fail and potentially causing water damage to your property.
The biggest cause of water damage that we see is when a pipe bursts and it can happen any time and the damage is extensive.
This is a common occurrence with flexi hoses bursting.
Water hammering: High water pressure can create loud noises in your plumbing system, particularly when you turn off taps. This noise is known as water hammering and is caused by the sudden stoppage of fast-moving water. It can not only be loud and annoying, it can lead to damage to pipes, valves, and other plumbing components over time
Appliance wear and tear: High water pressure can also damage appliances and fixtures in your home. Appliances such as dishwashers, washing machines, and water heaters are designed to operate within a certain pressure range. When the water pressure is too high, it can cause these appliances to malfunction or develop leaks. It can also put unnecessary stress on taps, showerheads, and toilet valves, leading to premature wear and failure.
Higher water bills: it can result in increased water consumption. The extra flow of water can lead to wastage as more water is used than necessary for various tasks like taking showers. This will result in higher water bills.
Another point we want to make is what happens if the high water pressure does cause a leak in your home – Can you claim it on your insurance?
The answer maybe a big fat NO
Read on to see why an insurance claim MAY be knocked back
High water pressure can potentially void an insurance claim for a few reasons:
- Policy Violation: Insurance policies often include specific clauses or requirements regarding the maintenance and care of the insured property. Suppose a property owner fails to comply with these requirements, such as not properly maintaining or monitoring water pressure levels. In that case, it can be seen as a violation of the policy terms. In such cases, the insurance company may argue that the property owner’s negligence or failure to address high water pressure contributed to the damages, leading to claim denial.
- Increased Risk: High water pressure can pose a higher risk of damage to plumbing systems, pipes, and appliances. Excessive pressure can cause pipes to burst, joints to fail, or appliances to malfunction, leading to water damage. Insurance companies expect homeowners to take reasonable steps to mitigate risks and maintain their properties. Suppose a homeowner is aware of high water pressure but fails to address it or take preventative measures. In that case, the insurance company might deny the claim, considering it a failure to mitigate risk.
- Gradual Damage: Insurance policies typically cover sudden and accidental incidents that cause damage, rather than gradual wear and tear. Suppose high water pressure causes gradual damage over time, such as slow leaks or weakened pipes that eventually lead to a burst. In that case, the insurance company may argue that the damage is not covered because it resulted from a long-term issue rather than a sudden event. This could result in claim denial or limited coverage.
- Pre-existing Condition: Insurance policies often exclude coverage for pre-existing conditions or damage. Suppose the property owner is aware of pre-existing high water pressure issues and fails to disclose them during the application process. In that case, the insurance company may consider it a material misrepresentation or non-disclosure of relevant information. As a result, they may deny coverage for any subsequent damage related to high water pressure.
It’s important to review your insurance policy, comply with its terms and conditions, and promptly address any known issues that may pose a risk to your property.
If you have concerns about high water pressure, consult with a qualified plumber or contact your insurance provider to understand the specific requirements and potential implications for your coverage.
Signs of High Water Pressure
You may notice some warning signs around your home that indicate your water pressure is too high.
The first warning sign is if your taps and showerheads are making a loud banging noise when you turn them on or off. This is water hammer and it is due to the sudden surge of water pressure, which can cause damage to your plumbing system over time.
The second warning sign is if your washing machine or dishwasher is taking longer than usual to fill up with water. This is because the high pressure can cause the inlet valve to malfunction, leading to a slower water flow.
The third warning sign is if your toilet is constantly running or if you hear a hissing sound coming from the tank. This may be due to the high pressure causing the fill valve to malfunction, leading to a constant flow of water.
If you notice any of these warning signs, it’s important to have your water pressure checked by a professional plumber.
High water pressure may seem like a good thing, but it can lead to costly repairs down the line. Checking your water pressure is easy and once we have confirmed it is high we can add a valve to lower the pressure.
Causes of High Water Pressure
One of the main causes of high water pressure is the water supply to your home.
If your water supply has high pressure, it can lead to high water pressure in your plumbing system.
Another cause of high water pressure is the malfunctioning of the pressure regulator. If the pressure regulator fails, it can cause the water pressure to increase beyond the recommended levels.
Solutions to High Water Pressure
To fix the issue of high water pressure, you can install a pressure reducing valve. This valve regulates the water flow and prevents excess pressure from causing damage to your plumbing system. It works by reducing the water pressure before it enters your home, ensuring that it stays at a safe level for your pipes and appliances.
The installation process can be done by a licensed plumber and involves attaching the valve to the main water supply line.
Another solution to high water pressure is to check and adjust the pressure regulator on your water meter. This regulator is responsible for maintaining a consistent water pressure throughout your home. Sometimes, it may become faulty or need to be adjusted to prevent pressure from building up to unsafe levels.
A plumber can help you determine if your regulator needs to be replaced or adjusted, ensuring that your water pressure stays at a safe level and your plumbing system remains intact.
The Benefits of Lowering Your Water Pressure
Lowering your water pressure can save you money on your water bill and prevent costly damage to your plumbing system.
By lowering your water pressure, you can extend the lifespan of your plumbing system and avoid these expensive repairs.
In addition to preventing damage to your plumbing system, lowering your water pressure can also save you money on your water bill.
When water is flowing at a high pressure, more water is being used than is actually necessary.
By reducing the pressure, you can reduce the amount of water being used, which will ultimately lower your water bill.
Book A Plumber Today
Do you think you may have high water pressure?
Get in touch with the team at Jet Plus Plumbing and we can quickly find the answer and provide you with a solution.
By taking these preventative measures, you can enjoy a well-functioning plumbing system and avoid costly repairs in the future.
Don’t wait until it’s too late, take action now to ensure your plumbing system is in top shape.
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