What Should Residential Water Pressure Be?
Are you wondering whether your home’s water pressure is what it should really be? There is nothing worse than coming home after a long day at work, only to be bet by low water pressure in your shower. A high-powered shower feels great! The water pouring out on you as you relax after a long day or try to wake up early in the morning is a great feeling. However, did you know that high home water pressure can pose some issues? Let’s talk a little bit about the way that water pressure is generated, as well as why it is important.
Your home most likely receives its water from a municipal water provider, and there are a number of factors that can contribute to the final water pressure that you receive. These factors include the height of the water tank or tower, as well as the size, location, and the number of homes that are connected to the water main (where your water is coming from).
Your home’s water pressure typically ranges between 40 and 80 psi (pounds per square inch). Water pressure below 40 psi is considered low, and water pressure above 80 psi is considered too high. Having the water pressure set too high, over 80 psi, can lead to broken water pipes and costly bills. High water pressure stresses your plumbing system and makes the probability of broken pipes much higher. The water pressure in your plumbing lines dramatically affects the life of your plumbing. Excessive water pressure at the end of the day is considered water waste that threatens your plumbing system.
So What Is The Ideal Home Water Pressure?
As previously mentioned, the normal water pressure should register between 40 and 80 psi (pounds per square inch), with the recommended home water pressure being around 60 psi. Anything in between is considered good water pressure to have in your home. If your water pressure is above these levels, then call us here at 1st Home & Commercial Services so we can help you save money and headaches by installing a pressure regulator on your home plumbing system. Our team of expert plumbers have combined years of experience and use only the best quality plumbing material and equipment to get the job done the right way.
Most water fixtures are designed to withstand 80 psi, but the water pressure coming from the City of Austin water supply requires a pressure reducing valve if your water pressure is greater than 65 psi. That is why a PRV or pressure reducing valve is often recommended by plumbers.
What is Good Water Pressure for a Well?
Does your home gets its water from a well rather than a municipal source? The ideal well water pressure is still between 40 and 60 psi. If you're not sure what your water pressure is, you can easily test it yourself! Testing your well water pressure a few times a year is a good way to stay ahead of any potential problems before they have a chance to get any worse.
How to Check Home Water Pressure Yourself
You can check the water pressure yourself by purchasing a hose bib scale at your local hardware or plumbing store. A hose bib scale will attach to an outside faucet. After it is attached, open the faucet valve on the plumbing line to receive your water pressure reading.
A simple check will ensure that you can enjoy your shower and make sure that the water pressure is set in a way that is protecting your water pipes from future breaks.
Related: How to Deal with Low Water Pressure