It is not a difficult task to test the water pressure. Water pressure requires a balance; low water pressure is annoying as anyone with a head full of shampoo can vouch for. High water pressure, on the other hand can result in damaged pipes, appliances, and water leaks. If you are unable to provide the water pressure check, and suspect water pressure problems, Benjamin Franklin Plumbing® of Rosenberg can provide it for you.

Whether it is low or high, Benjamin Franklin Plumbing® of Rosenberg can provide a solution and/or the required repairs for your home. The first step when water pressure problems exist is to test it when you suspect the pressure is either too high or low. Learn how in the following.

A pressure gage is available from a hardware store for $5-$20. You simply screw it on an outdoor faucet as you would a garden hose. Ensure no water is running for the short time required to test the pressure. Once you attach the gauge, turn the water on, and watch the dial for display of the amount of pressure.  

The Causes of High Water Pressure

High water pressure is often due to the municipal water supply delivery. In addition, homes located at the bottom of a hill can experience increased water pressure. To prevent the damaging effects of high water pressure, Benjamin Franklin’s plumbers in Katy can install a pressure regulator on the water main, which connects the water meter to your home. The pressure regulator will reduce water pressure to an amount safe for your home’s plumbing system.

However, when a pressure regulator is already in place on your water main, check the water pressure. Regulators will not last forever, and environmental factors can accelerate deterioration. When a pressure regulator fails, it can result in low water pressure by not allowing ample water to reach your home, or it may result in high water pressure by allowing the full municipal water pressure to reach your home. When the installation of a pressure regulator is required, contact Benjamin Franklin’s plumbers in Katy. Installation is not a task the average homeowner can provide, as it requires cutting into the homes water main. Our plumbers will be glad to help you, and are just a phone call away.

Expansion Tanks

High water pressure can also be a result of the thermal expansion of hot water within the water heater. Your home’s incoming water pressure can be normal, while the hot water supply may be elevated. The home’s hot water supply is essentially a closed system. As the water heater heats water, the heated water expands causing an increase in pressure. An expansion tank absorbs these volume changes and prevents pressure issues that can cause damage in your plumbing system.

Low Water Pressure

Low water pressure can be due to numerous causes, including the municipal water supply. If low water pressure is not normal, and is due to the municipal supply a leak is likely within their system. Other causes include a leak somewhere within your home’s plumbing. In addition, it is also possible for your pipes to have mineral buildup due to hard water. By blocking the water flow, you receive a reduced amount of water resulting in low water pressure. Benjamin Franklin Plumbing® of Rosenberg can provide a solution for any of these causes.