How to Fix High Water Pressure in House

How to Fix High Water Pressure in Your House

High water pressure is a silent problem — it damages pipes, shortens appliance life, causes faucets and toilets to leak, and can eventually burst pipes. Normal household pressure is 40–80 PSI. Anything above 80 PSI is too high and needs to be addressed.

Step 1: Test Your Water Pressure

👉 Water pressure gauge — attach to an outdoor hose bib or laundry faucet. Turn the water on fully and read the gauge.

40–80 PSI: Normal range
80–100 PSI: High — adjust your PRV
Above 100 PSI: Very high — fix immediately

Signs of High Water Pressure

Faucets and toilets that leak or run frequently
Banging or hammering sounds in pipes (water hammer)
Appliances (dishwasher, washing machine) wearing out faster than expected
Spitting or splashing when you turn on faucets
Unusually high water bills

Fix 1: Adjust the Pressure Reducing Valve (PRV)

Most homes built after the 1980s have a PRV where the water line enters the house — usually near the main shut-off valve. It looks like a bell-shaped device with an adjustment screw on top.

How to adjust:

Locate the PRV — typically near where the water main enters the house
Loosen the locknut on the adjustment screw
Turn the screw counterclockwise to reduce pressure
Make small adjustments — a quarter turn at a time
Test pressure with your gauge after each adjustment
Target: 50–60 PSI for most homes
Tighten the locknut when done

Fix 2: Replace a Failing PRV

If the PRV is more than 10–15 years old or won't hold the adjusted pressure, it needs replacement:

👉 Pressure regulating valve — pre-set to 60 PSI, fits 3/4 inch NPT female connections.

How to replace:

Turn off the main water supply
Open faucets to drain pressure from the lines
Cut out the old PRV (or unscrew if threaded)
Wrap new PRV threads with PTFE tape
Install new PRV with the arrow pointing in the direction of water flow
Turn water back on slowly and test pressure
Adjust if needed

Fix 3: Install a PRV (If You Don't Have One)

If your home doesn't have a PRV and pressure is high, installing one is the permanent solution. This is a moderate DIY job — or hire a plumber if you're not comfortable cutting into the main line.

Why High Pressure Matters

Every 10 PSI above 80 PSI significantly shortens the life of washing machines, dishwashers, and water heaters
High pressure is the leading cause of pinhole leaks in copper pipes
It causes toilet flappers and fill valves to wear out faster
It increases water usage and your water bill

Bottom Line

Test your water pressure with a gauge — it takes 2 minutes. If it's above 80 PSI, adjust the PRV screw counterclockwise to bring it down to 50–60 PSI. If the PRV is old or won't hold adjustment, replace it. This one fix protects every pipe and appliance in your home.

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