Feeling under pressure? Generally we do not notice our water pressure is too high until something bad happens. What could happen if my water pressure is too high you ask.

  • Pipe burst
  • Pipe leak
  • Leaky Faucet/shower due to seals
  • Damage to Washer/Dishwasher/Ice Maker
  • Etc…

I think you get the idea that high water pressure is not good. The typical inlet water pressure to a home is about 40 to 45 psi. Normally, it should not exceed 60 psi. The pressure regulator is usually preset to 50 psi. However, it can be adjusted anywhere from 25 to 75 psi with a simple turn of a screw, as shown above.

What does a pressure regulator look like?

They are located on the pipe leading into your home. Generally outside or in the garage after a shutoff valve (Yellow Handle in picture above). 

 

These can be adjusted as long as they have not failed. If they have failed due to age they need to be replaced. You can easily check your pressure by a quick trip to the hardware store for a pressure gauge. They can be picked up for cheap compared to the cost of a plumber. 

 

 

You screw it on to the first hose bib on your home, then by turning it on you will get a pressure reading. It is important that you have no running water in your home to get a accurate pressure reading. (Click image below to watch a YouTube Video on it)

Checking your water pressure often is a good practice, we check our smoke detectors to make sure the batteries are good and checking items like this can save you a lot of money on costly plumbers.

If your pressure is too high the regulator can be adjusted or replaced if it failed. Both of these can be done by skilled persons or professional plumbers. If you do not know what you are doing you should seek some help of course and we do not want you taking the risk of damage or a flood to save the money of seeking the professionals for adjustment or replacement. This article was just to show you how easy it is to check your pressure before damage is done. A $11 Gauge can save you hundreds on a plumber and thousands on replacement of damaged appliances.

Now go check your pressure…