High water pressure can be damaging to appliances, pipes and fixtures. This is due to the inability of hoses, pipes, etc., to handle the high pressure. Excessively high water pressure can cause a break in supply lines and valves. This happens when the pressure inside the line is greater than the strength of the line. High water pressure has even been known to cause explosions.
Clanging pipes, caused by the high speed water in the pipes, is a definite sign of high water pressure. When the fixture is closed, the water bounces back, causing shock and damage to the pipes. If you notice this problem, called, “water hammer,” call your plumbing technician right away.
Have your plumbing technician check your water pressure. If it is high, you should have your tech install a pressure reducing valve (or PRV). TPD also recommends, and the City of San Antonio requires, an expansion tank to protect your home plumbing system. The expansion tank provides an area for heated water to expand, if necessary, and assists in maintaining constant pressure in your home.
It may be pertinent to note that the International Plumbing Code does not allow us to warranty any plumbing fixtures or appliances subjected to greater than eighty (80) pounds per square inch (552kPa) of pressure.
Why Do I Need a Pressure Reducing Valve?
Pressure in San Antonio water supply mains can exceed 200 psi. The International Plumbing Code requires a pressure reducing valve on all plumbing systems where pressure exceeds 80 psi. Higher pressures could rupture pipes or damage fixtures and appliances. Irrigation systems may also require a PRV if pressures exceed 70 psi, to prevent damage of the piping system.
Pressure Reducing Valves & Water Conservation
High water pressures waste water. Municipalities in the San Antonio area charge homeowners and businesses high rates for water consumption; but there is also a charge in most locations for the disposal of wastewater. Reducing water consumption reduces the energy required for heating additional hot water, as well. Note the cost reductions using a PRV can achieve:
· Twice as much water flows through a system at 150 psi pressure than at 50 psi. This additional water is not needed for most applications, and is a 100% increase in water cost.
· When less water flows through the system, less energy is needed to heat domestic hot water. A pressure reducing valve can save as much as 30% on domestic water heating costs.
· When a municipal wastewater treatment load is reduced, benefits are seen in both the environment and your water bill, since municipalities typically base sewer usage fees on the water meter reading.
Give Texas Plumbing Diagnostics, your San Antonio plumbing repair company, a call today to determine whether high water pressure may be a problem at YOUR home! Feel free to call Dixie at 210-698-9760 or email her at Dixie@TPDtx.com .
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