Low water pressure in a home can cause problems like a trickling showerhead, a faucet that doesn’t flow like it used to, or a toilet that is slow to flush. However, excess water pressure brings its share of problems, too. You might not notice that much of a difference, but water pressure affects many components of your plumbing system. Some, like the effects on the water heater, you might not even realize! Over time, high water pressure can wear out the components more quickly, causing damage or necessitating premature replacement. Whether or not you suspect that your home’s water pressure levels are off the mark, it’s essential to save your water heater from damage.
Know the Signs of High Water Pressure
High water pressure presents with a set of unique characteristics. Banging and clattering pipes are some classic indications of high water pressure. You may also notice that the faucet aerator makes a spitting or hissing noise when you turn on the faucet. The faucets may leak, and the toilets may run. Along with the water heater, you might notice that other appliances like the dishwasher and washing machine don’t last as long as they should.
Install a Pressure Relief Valve
One of the simplest ways to keep tabs on a hot water heater Las Vegas is installing a pressure relief valve. A pressure relief valve monitors the water pressure in the system. Essentially, its job is to monitor the level of water that comes into the water heater to make sure there’s no strain on the water system itself, the appliances, or the pipes. Ideally, you should have gauges on either end of the valve so that you can quickly and accurately know what the water pressure levels are like.
How High is Too High?
If someone asked you what the proper reading was for water pressure in your home, would you know offhand? First, you’ll need to make sure that your home has a pressure regulating valve (PRV) installed to read water pressure. The ideal level for water pressure is between 60 psi and 80 psi. If the water pressure reading in your home consistently exceeds 80 psi, you may have a problem with high water pressure. If that’s the case, you’ll want to contact an expert at easy flow plumbing Las Vegas as soon as possible to have the problem fixed. Otherwise, you can end up with high water bills, and you may need to replace your plumbing system and appliances sooner than anticipated.
Typically, a water heater should last between seven and 12 years. But high water pressure can dramatically shorten its lifespan. Recognizing the symptoms of high water pressure and fixing the problem before it destroys your plumbing system saves money and headache down the road. If you’re concerned about water pressure, contact Service Plus Plumbing, your local plumbing experts, for assistance.