Although high water pressure doesn’t always sound like such a bad thing, especially when it comes to a strong shower, however the added stress on your pipes can lead to a multitude of problems for your plumbing. There’s a few reasons why you may experience high water pressure, which are often out of your control and have to do with your community water usage, as your water pressure will fluctuate in response to your neighbourhood use. Here are a few key signs to look out for that may mean you are experiencing high water pressure:

  • Any unusual sounds that come from your pipes such as banging or rattling
  • If your pipes begin to leak due to the unnecessary strain of the water pressure
  • Increase in water bills
  • You are experiencing a short supply of hot water

The main risks you will face when it comes to high water pressure are:

  1. Leaking pipes: the main problem related to high water pressure is the increased strain on your plumbing system, causing damage to your pipes. If leaking pipes are left untreated you could be faced with mould and other water damage related problems in your home.
  2. Damage to your appliances: high water pressure is extremely rough on you appliances, such as your water heater, dishwasher and washing machine.
  3. Your insurance could be voided: when it comes to high water pressure you are at risk of having your home insurance or the warranty on your appliances being voided. Therefore, it is important to look for any signs of leakage or loud noises coming from appliances of pipes.
  4. High water bills: if you notice that your water bill has suddenly increased it could be due to high water pressure due to the wasted water every time you turn on your taps.
  5. Noises coming from your pipes: If you experience loud noises coming from your pipes, specially when you turn off your kitchen or bathroom taps, this is referred to as a “water hammer”. High water pressure can cause your plumbing pipes to loosen or break.

Ensuring that you water pressure is correct is extremely important and fortunately very easy to control, all you need is a water pressure device such as a pressure reduction valve that will ensure your water stays at regulated pressure. It is necessary to keep in mind that water pressure regulators generally have a 7-12 year life span before they should be replaced.