Smyrna Georgia / Cobb County Georgia
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Home Inspection Library J C Weise Property Inspector Woodstock, GA www.UpscaleInspections.com

Water Service Pressure

Although some authorities having jurisdiction consider normal water pressure to be 40-80 psi, I recommend 40-60 psi. Water pressures higher than 80 psi can result in advanced deterioration of water supply system components; premature failure of faucets, connections, and water-using appliances; and water leaks. Those water leaks can develop at any time when the water pressure is too high, and an unknown or unseen leak can result in mold growth and possible health problems, not to mention water damage to the property. Water pressures lower than 40 psi can result in poor water flow at shower heads, water faucets, and water-using appliances, particularly when several components or appliances are being use simultaneous (such as a shower, a toilet, and the dishwasher). Keeping the water pressure closer to 40 psi will help prolong the life expectancy of water-using appliances and water supply pipes, valves, and faucets, which, in turn, help prevent leaks, water damage, and mold.

Most people increase the water pressure when they are unhappy with the water flow in the shower, particularly in multi-story buildings. Before increasing the water pressure, though, I recommend having your shower head cleaned or replacing it with a more efficient one. The chemicals in our water can result in various mineral deposits building up on, or inside of, the shower head and faucets, resulting in a decreased water flow. If you’re unhappy with the shower head itself, many home improvement stores have a great selection of more efficient shower heads, some with as many as 250 water jets that work quite well at 40 psi.

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