Understanding Water Pressure: What’s Too High, What’s Too Low, and How to Fix It

Why Water Pressure Matters More Than You Think

Whether it’s a weak shower stream or a loud banging pipe, water pressure issues can quickly disrupt daily life. But beyond inconvenience, improper water pressure can actually damage your home’s plumbing, appliances, and fixtures.

At Bruni & Campisi, Inc., we help homeowners throughout Westchester, Putnam, Rockland, and Fairfield Counties understand, diagnose, and fix water pressure problems safely and effectively. By maintaining the right balance, you’ll not only improve comfort but also extend the life of your plumbing system.

What Is Normal Water Pressure?

In most homes, ideal water pressure falls between 40 and 60 psi (pounds per square inch). Anything below or above this range can cause noticeable performance issues or long-term damage.

To get an accurate reading, our technicians use specialized gauges attached to exterior spigots or main lines. This allows us to pinpoint whether pressure irregularities are isolated or system-wide.

Signs Your Water Pressure Is Too Low

Low water pressure can make everyday tasks frustrating — from filling a bathtub to rinsing dishes. It’s also one of the most common plumbing complaints we hear from homeowners in Westchester and Fairfield Counties.

Common Symptoms

• Weak or inconsistent water flow from faucets and showers
  
• Washing machines or dishwashers taking longer to fill
  
• Toilets refilling slowly
  
• Sudden drops in pressure when multiple fixtures run at once
  

Possible Causes

• Pipe leaks: Even small leaks can reduce overall pressure.
  
• Mineral buildup: Hard water deposits narrow pipes over time.
  
• Corroded pipes: Older homes with galvanized steel plumbing often experience internal rusting.
  
• Faulty pressure regulators: A failing regulator may restrict flow to your fixtures.
  
• Municipal supply issues: Sometimes, the problem originates outside your home.
  

Our plumbers can quickly determine whether the issue lies inside your plumbing system or with the external supply line.

Signs Your Water Pressure Is Too High

While low pressure is frustrating, high water pressure can be far more destructive. Excessive force stresses your entire plumbing system, leading to leaks, burst pipes, and premature wear on appliances.

Common Symptoms

• Banging or knocking sounds (“water hammer”) in pipes
  
• Frequent leaks at faucets or joints
  
• Running toilets or dripping showerheads
  
• Shortened appliance lifespan (especially dishwashers and water heaters)
  
• Spraying water when turning on a faucet
  

Dangers of High Pressure

• Damaged seals and gaskets: Pressure over 80 psi can cause fittings to loosen.
  
• Appliance wear: Continuous high pressure can ruin washing machine hoses and valves.
  
• Wasted water: Leaks from excessive pressure can waste hundreds of gallons each month.
  

Even if your fixtures seem to work fine, high water pressure can silently cause damage behind walls and under floors.

How to Test Your Home’s Water Pressure

You can perform a simple water pressure check using a store-bought gauge, but for accurate results — and to ensure safe conditions — a professional test is best.

During an inspection, Bruni & Campisi technicians connect calibrated instruments to your home’s main line, measuring both static (resting) and dynamic (running) pressure levels. This allows us to identify whether issues are caused by supply inconsistencies, leaks, or failing regulators.

Fixing Low Water Pressure

Depending on what’s causing the problem, there are several effective solutions.

Leak Detection and Repair

If a hidden leak is lowering your water pressure, our plumbers use acoustic and thermal imaging tools to locate and repair it without unnecessary damage to your home.

Pipe Cleaning or Replacement

In homes with older or mineral-clogged pipes, we can perform pipe descaling or recommend modern replacements like PEX or copper for smoother flow.

Pressure Booster Installation

If your municipal supply is consistently low, a booster pump can safely increase water flow throughout your home.

Fixing High Water Pressure

For excessive water pressure, regulation is key.

Pressure-Reducing Valve (PRV)

Most homes have a PRV installed near the main water line. If it’s old or malfunctioning, replacing it restores safe, steady pressure levels. Our team installs high-quality valves that maintain ideal flow automatically.

Expansion Tank for Water Heaters

High pressure can also stem from thermal expansion inside your water heater. Installing an expansion tank prevents damage to internal components and piping.

Regular System Inspections

Routine inspections ensure that pressure remains balanced as your plumbing system ages or as new fixtures are added.

How Bruni & Campisi Helps Maintain Healthy Water Pressure

For more than 40 years, Bruni & Campisi, Inc. has provided expert plumbing, heating, cooling, and electrical services to homeowners across New York and Connecticut. Our licensed plumbers understand the unique challenges posed by regional infrastructure, older homes, and seasonal temperature swings.

When you call our team, you can expect:

• Accurate water pressure testing and diagnosis
  
• Professional repairs or valve replacements
  
• Comprehensive leak detection and pipe inspections
  
• Customized recommendations for long-term system balance
  

We combine advanced diagnostic tools with decades of experience to ensure your home’s plumbing runs safely and efficiently.

Keep Your Plumbing in Perfect Balance

Water pressure issues may seem minor, but they can quickly escalate if ignored. Whether you’re dealing with weak showers or noisy pipes, professional service is the best way to restore lasting comfort and protection.Call Bruni & Campisi today to schedule your water pressure inspection in Westchester or Fairfield County.
Or contact our team online to learn more about our expert plumbing repair and maintenance services.