Pressure Reducing Valves

High water pressure could also be thought of as water with too strong of a "push" behind it.  High water pressure can erode or wear away many materials and cause water heaters to leak, banging water pipes, dripping faucets, excessive dishwasher/laundry noise and breakdowns.  It may also cause "water hammering"  and leaking water pipes.  Water Hammering is generally described as a noise caused by the shock of high speed water flowing through a pipe when a fixture is suddenly closed.  Some manufacturers may also void warranties for damage caused by water pressure being to high.   The recommended pressure for an average household system is around 60 PSI.

An increase in water pressure is typically caused by your water company boosting the pressure from their pump station, so the closer you are to a pump station the more likely hood that your pressure has been increased, as the pressure will die down over distance.

A solution to this common problem would be to install "Pressure Reducing Valves".  It is a valve that is commonly installed after the meter in your plumbing system that automatically reduces the high incoming water pressure from the city's water mains, to provide a lower more functional pressure for distribution with in the home.  They "regulate" by maintaining a set pressure in the home (usually around 50 PSI).  Thereby insuring that the home's piping and appliances operate under a safe, more moderate but satisfactory pressure.  By installing Pressure Reducing Valves; you are extending the life of your plumbing system as well as saving water on your water bill, as less water is being "forced" out of your system, lowering the amount of water you may waste will performing simple tasks (such as daily hygiene, washing dishes etc.)  The average house can save up to 30 to 40,000 gallons of water per year.

Since 1977, William Henderson Plumbing & Heating Inc has been providing quality plumbing, heating and cooling service throughout Delaware County and the Main Line. We can be reached in our office at 610-544-7999 or visit us at www.wmhendersoninc.com.