What’s Up with Your Water Pressure?

Water Pressure Woes

Causes of Low and High Water Pressure in Your Home

Have you noticed your shower suddenly turning into a weak drizzle... or worse, your pipes making strange banging noises when you turn on the tap? These are classic signs of water pressure problems, and they can be more than just annoying. Whether you're dealing with water pressure that’s too low or too high, understanding the root causes can help you avoid damage, save water, and restore comfort.

What Is Water Pressure?

Water pressure is the force that pushes water through your pipes and out of your fixtures. It’s typically measured in PSI (pounds per square inch). Ideally, your home’s water pressure should be between 40 to 60 PSI. Anything significantly above or below that range can cause problems.

Causes of Low Water Pressure

Low water pressure can make everyday tasks like washing dishes, doing laundry, or taking a shower frustrating. Here are some common causes:

Clogged or Corroded Pipes

Over time, mineral deposits, rust, or debris can build up inside pipes, restricting water flow. This is especially common in older homes with galvanized steel plumbing.

Leaks in the Plumbing System

If water is escaping through a leak somewhere in your system, less of it will make it to your fixtures. You may also notice damp spots, mold, or unusually high water bills.

Municipal Supply Issues

Sometimes the issue isn't in your home, it's with your water provider. Maintenance work, high demand, or a drop in supply pressure can affect your home.

Faulty Fixtures or Valves

A partially closed shut-off valve or a clogged faucet aerator can reduce water flow at individual fixtures.

Failing Pressure Regulator

Homes with a pressure regulator valve (PRV) may experience pressure drops if the regulator fails or is set too low.

Causes of High Water Pressure

At first, high water pressure might seem like a good thing, strong showers and quick-filling sinks. But too much pressure can strain your plumbing and appliances, leading to leaks, bursts, or early failure.

Bad or Missing Pressure Regulator

If your home doesn’t have a pressure regulator (or if it’s malfunctioning) your water pressure may be higher than it should be, especially if you're close to a municipal water main.

Thermal Expansion

When water heats up in your water heater, it expands. If there’s no expansion tank or backflow prevention device, pressure can spike in your pipes.

Municipal Supply Pressure

Some municipal water systems supply water at pressures that are too high for residential plumbing. A PRV is essential in these cases to bring it down to a safe level.

Why Water Pressure Matters

Too low, and your appliances won’t work efficiently. Too high, and you risk damaging your pipes, fixtures, and water heater. Both situations can waste water, increase bills, and lead to expensive repairs.

What You Can Do

• Check your pressure with a water pressure gauge. You can find these at most hardware stores.

• Inspect valves and fixtures for buildup or blockages.

• Call a plumber to assess leaks, corrosion, or faulty regulators.

• Install a PRV or expansion tank if your system doesn’t already have one.

Final Thoughts

Water pressure might not be something you think about every day... until it becomes a problem. Whether you’re dealing with a frustrating trickle or pipes that sound like they’re ready to explode, getting to the root of your pressure issues can save you a lot of stress and money.

If you’re unsure what’s causing your pressure problems, don’t wait until it turns into a plumbing emergency.

Give Bailey Bros Plumbing & Drain a call. We’ll diagnose the issue and get your water flowing just right. 443-787-5995 or baileybrosllc@gmail.com