There’s nothing quite like a warm shower with excellent water pressure, but high water pressure can actually harm your plumbing system. Keep reading to discover the ideal water pressure for your home and how to check it.
What is Water Pressure?
Water pressure is the force that pushes water through your pipes, measured in pounds per square inch (psi) using a gauge.
Factors like altitude, water demand, sediment buildup, and blockages in your pipes can all affect water pressure.
Why Should I Test My Home’s Water Pressure?
Excessive water pressure can damage flexible plumbing lines, such as washing machine hoses, potentially causing a blowout and flooding your home.
High water pressure puts stress on your plumbing system, increases the risk of line breaks, and can shorten the lifespan of your plumbing.
What is the Ideal Water Pressure for My Home?
Maintaining your home’s water pressure within an acceptable range is essential. The ideal water pressure is between 40 and 80 pounds per square inch, with 60 psi being the recommended level for most homes.
How to Test Your Home’s Water Pressure
Here are some easy steps to test your home’s water pressure:
Choose the Right Spot: If you get your water from a municipal supplier, the best place to test is at the hose spigot closest to where your main water supply enters your home. If you don’t have a hose bib, you can test it from the cold water supply of your washing machine. Disconnect the hose carefully to catch any trapped water, then attach the pressure gauge to the faucet.
Ensure No Other Water is Being Used: Before testing, make sure no other water sources in the house are running, like dishwashers or laundry machines, as this can cause a false low reading.
Attach the Pressure Gauge: Use a pressure gauge that measures in psi. Install it onto the faucet, tightening it by hand for a secure fit. Avoid any water leaks during the test, as they can lead to inaccurate readings.
Open the Faucet: Turn the faucet on fully. The pressure gauge will start displaying your water pressure level.
