How Do I Check Water Pressure in My House?

• When your home’s water pressure is within a safe range, your fixtures and appliances function more effectively. For example, your washing machine and dishwasher can properly fill and clean, while faucets and showers provide consistent water flow without sputtering or uneven surges.
• Too much water pressure can lead to significant wear and tear on your plumbing system. High water pressure strains pipes, valves, and fixtures, which can cause leaks or even burst pipes over time. On the flip side, low pressure makes daily tasks frustratingly slow and can be a sign of more serious underlying issues.
• High water pressure leads to wasted water. For instance, a faucet or showerhead that’s pumping out water at too high a rate may be delivering more than you need.

What’s a safe water pressure level?

So, what’s the magic number when it comes to water pressure? The ideal water pressure for most homes falls between 40 and 60 psi (pounds per square inch), with 50-55 psi often considered the sweet spot.

Pressure below 40 psi is typically too low. You may experience weak showers, slow-filling appliances, and overall reduced efficiency. Meanwhile, pressure above 60 psi is too high and can lead to damage over time.

How to check water pressure in your home

Fortunately, checking your home’s water pressure is a straightforward process that doesn’t require professional plumbing knowledge. Here’s how you can do it yourself in just a few steps:

• Get a Water Pressure Gauge: You can pick this up at any hardware store or order online. It’s designed to attach directly to an outdoor faucet or a threaded faucet indoors
• Turn Off All Water Fixtures: This means turning off all faucets, appliances (such as your dishwasher and washing machine), and sprinkler systems. This ensures you get an accurate reading.
• Attach the Gauge: Screw the water pressure gauge onto an outdoor hose bib or a faucet. Tighten it by hand to ensure a snug fit without over-tightening.
• Turn On the Water: Once the gauge is in place, turn the faucet on fully and let the water flow into the gauge.
• Assess the Reading: The needle will give you a reading of your home’s water pressure in psi.

When to call a plumber

If your water pressure is consistently outside the safe range, or you notice fluctuations in pressure, it’s best to have a plumber in Hewitt, TX investigate. High or low pressure can be symptoms of larger plumbing issues.

Residents in the area who need reliable and affordable plumbing service can call Mr. Rooter Plumbing. We offer competitive pricing and price quotes upfront.

Hire a plumber NOW

Contact Mr. Rooter Plumbing if you need emergency plumbing repair service. Our team is on standby to take your call or message at any time of the day.