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Water pressure is something most homeowners don’t think about—until it starts causing problems. While strong water pressure might feel great in the shower, pressure that’s too high can quietly damage your home’s plumbing system over time.
In a recent service call, our plumbing apprentice, Silas, replaced a failed pressure reducing valve (PRV) and installed a new shut-off valve after discovering the home’s water pressure had climbed to 120 PSI, well above the recommended maximum.
Here’s why that matters and how a properly functioning PRV can help protect your home.
What Is a Pressure Reducing Valve (PRV)?
A Pressure Reducing Valve (PRV) is installed where your home’s main water line enters the house. Its job is simple but important:
- Regulate incoming water pressure
- Keep pressure at a safe level throughout your plumbing system
- Protect your pipes, fixtures, and appliances from excessive pressure
Without a working PRV, your home’s plumbing is exposed to the full pressure coming from the municipal water supply, which can fluctuate throughout the day.
What Happens When Water Pressure Is Too High?
During this installation, the home’s water pressure measured 120 PSI.
For comparison:
- Plumbing code recommends 80 PSI or less
- Waldrop technicians typically adjust PRVs to around 70 PSI for optimal performance and protection
When pressure climbs well above safe levels, it places unnecessary stress on your plumbing system every time you turn on the water.
Problems High Water Pressure Can Cause
Excessive water pressure doesn’t just affect one part of your home… it impacts your entire plumbing system.
Over time, it can lead to:
Leaking Fixtures
Faucets, shower valves, and toilets wear out faster when they’re constantly exposed to excessive pressure.
Pipe Damage
Higher pressure places additional strain on pipes and fittings, increasing the risk of leaks or even burst pipes.
Appliance Wear
Water heaters, dishwashers, washing machines, and refrigerators all rely on your home’s plumbing system. High pressure can shorten their lifespan and lead to expensive repairs.
Higher Water Bills
Excessive pressure often means more water flows every time you use a faucet or fixture, leading to unnecessary water usage and increased utility costs.
Why Replace a Failed PRV?
Like any plumbing component, a pressure reducing valve can wear out over time.
When it fails, it may no longer regulate water pressure, allowing dangerously high pressure throughout your home.
Replacing a failed PRV restores safe operating pressure and helps:
- Protect your plumbing system
- Reduce stress on fixtures
- Extend the life of appliances
- Prevent costly plumbing repairs
- Provide more consistent water pressure throughout the home
Why Install a New Shut-Off Valve at the Same Time?
During this project, our team also installed a new main water shut-off valve.
A reliable shut-off valve allows you, or a plumber, to quickly stop water flow if there’s ever a plumbing emergency or if repairs need to be made.
If your existing shut-off valve is difficult to turn, leaking, or no longer works properly, replacing it can save valuable time during an emergency.
How Do You Know If You Have High Water Pressure?
Many homeowners don’t realize their water pressure is too high until damage has already occurred.
Some common warning signs include:
- Faucets that spray harder than normal
- Pipes making banging or knocking noises
- Frequent plumbing leaks
- Running toilets
- Appliances failing prematurely
- Dripping faucets even after repairs
- Water heater issues
The only way to know for sure is to have your home’s water pressure tested.
Protect Your Greenville, SC Home’s Plumbing
A properly functioning pressure reducing valve is a small component that plays a big role in protecting your home’s plumbing system. If your PRV has failed or if your home’s water pressure hasn’t been checked in years, a simple inspection could help prevent expensive repairs down the road.
At Waldrop Plumbing, Air & Electric, our experienced plumbers can test your home’s water pressure, inspect your pressure reducing valve, and recommend the best solution to keep your plumbing system protected.
Save More with Club Wally
Routine plumbing inspections can help catch issues like failing pressure reducing valves before they become major problems. Club Wally members receive discounted plumbing inspections, priority scheduling, waived dispatch fees, repair discounts, and additional benefits designed to help protect their home’s plumbing system year-round.
If you’re concerned about your home’s water pressure or think your PRV may need attention, contact Waldrop today to schedule a plumbing inspection.
