The short answer
How Pressure Damages Pipes
High water pressure pushes against the inside of your pipes with more force than they were designed to handle. Over time, this constant stress weakens soldered joints, threaded connections, and rubber seals. A small drip can turn into a crack, especially at elbows or where pipes bend.
The damage often shows up first at the weakest points, such as the connection to your water heater, under sinks, or along supply lines to appliances. If you notice a damp spot or hear a hissing sound, that pressure is already working against your plumbing system.
What Is Normal Pressure
Residential water pressure typically ranges from 40 to 80 pounds per square inch (psi). Many homes sit on the higher end, but anything above 80 psi raises the risk of leaks. You can buy a simple pressure gauge at a hardware store and attach it to an outdoor spigot to measure your own pressure.
If your pressure reads above 80 psi, a pressure-reducing valve installed on your main water line can bring it into a safer range. That valve is a job for a plumber, who can also check for other weak spots while they are at it.
- Check pressure at an outdoor faucet with a gauge
- Look for damp spots on walls, floors, or ceilings
- Listen for hissing sounds near pipe joints
- Inspect visible pipes for corrosion or green stains
- Turn off the water at the main shutoff if a leak appears
What to Do After a Leak
Once you shut off the water, remove any standing water with towels or a wet vacuum if you have one. Move furniture and rugs away from the wet area so they do not soak up moisture. Open windows and run fans to help dry the space, but do not use heaters that could warp wood floors.
For serious flooding, a water damage pro can extract water from carpets, subflooring, and crawlspaces. They can also assess whether drywall or insulation needs removal. If you live in Layton, keep your shutoff valve location written down so you can act fast.
Preventing Future Leaks
Prevention starts with knowing your home's pressure. Install a pressure gauge and check it a few times a year, especially after the city does work on water mains. Consider a whole-house pressure regulator if your pressure runs high consistently.
Also inspect flexible supply lines on appliances like your refrigerator and washing machine. These braided hoses can fail without warning. Replacing them every five to seven years is a simple step that reduces leak risk. Catching a small drip early is far easier than dealing with a burst pipe later.
- Test pressure twice a year
- Replace appliance supply lines every five to seven years
- Tighten loose fittings but do not overtighten
- Insulate pipes in unheated areas to prevent freezing
- Know where your main shutoff valve is
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Call Now (801) 383-0232Frequently asked questions
How can I tell if my water pressure is too high?
Attach a pressure gauge to an outdoor spigot and read the number. If it is above 80 psi, your pressure is on the high side. You can also watch for water hammer sounds or frequent dripping from faucets, which often point to excess pressure.
Will high pressure damage my water heater?
Yes, high pressure can stress the tank and its connections, leading to leaks at the inlet or outlet pipes. The temperature and pressure relief valve may also discharge water more often. A plumber can install a pressure regulator to protect the heater.
Should I call a plumber or a water damage pro for a leak?
Call a plumber to fix the source of the leak, such as a broken pipe or faulty valve. After the water is shut off, a water damage pro can handle the cleanup, drying, and any needed repairs to drywall or flooring. Both roles are important.