Spring is the perfect time for fresh starts—and that includes your plumbing. As temperatures rise and water usage increases across Gresham, Clackamas, and the Portland metro area, your home’s pipes face more stress. One of the most overlooked yet important maintenance steps you can take is testing your water pressure.
High or low water pressure can signal serious problems in your plumbing system. Ignoring it could result in everything from fixture damage to hidden leaks. In this post, we’ll explain why pressure testing matters, how it’s done, and what signs indicate it’s time to get your system checked.
What Is a Water Pressure Test?
A pressure test measures how forcefully water flows through your home’s plumbing system, usually in pounds per square inch (PSI). The ideal residential range is between 40 and 60 PSI. Anything outside that range can cause long-term damage or signal an underlying issue.
Testing can be done at the hose bib or through a home’s main line. It helps determine:
- Whether your pipes are over-pressurized
- If you have a hidden leak reducing pressure
- Whether your pressure regulator or valves are malfunctioning
- If there’s buildup in your pipes affecting flow
It’s a fast, inexpensive test that reveals a lot about the overall health of your system.
Why High Pressure Is a Hidden Risk
At first glance, high water pressure might seem like a good thing—strong showers, fast-filling sinks, and quick laundry cycles. But excessive pressure can quietly wear down your plumbing system over time.
Consequences of consistently high water pressure include:
- Burst pipes or hose connections
- Leaks in supply lines behind walls or under sinks
- Damaged water heaters, especially if sediment builds up
- Shortened fixture lifespan due to excessive stress
If you’ve ever heard a banging or knocking noise after shutting off a faucet, that “water hammer” effect is often caused by pressure spikes.
Low Pressure Can Be Just as Concerning
Low water pressure doesn’t always mean a serious issue—but it’s rarely something you should ignore. Causes can range from easy-to-fix clogs to major leaks.
Here are some common culprits:
- Sediment buildup in aerators or showerheads
- Clogged or corroded supply lines
- Failing pressure regulators
- Leaks in underground pipes
- Municipal supply problems (which we can help you confirm)
If you’re struggling with slow water flow in just one area of your home, it’s probably a local issue. If the entire house is affected, it’s time for a full-system evaluation.
How Da Vinci’s Best Plumbing Can Help
We offer comprehensive spring checkups that include water pressure testing as part of our diagnostic process. Using a calibrated pressure gauge and visual inspection, our licensed plumbers can quickly identify any imbalances and determine the safest PSI for your system.
If pressure is too high, we may recommend installing or adjusting a pressure-reducing valve (PRV). If it’s too low, we’ll trace the problem back to its source—whether it’s a leak, mineral buildup, or faulty valve—and recommend the most cost-effective fix.
Other Signs It’s Time for a Pressure Test
- Leaking water heater valves or fixtures
- Water hammer or pipe banging noises
- Fluctuating water flow throughout the day
- Visible corrosion on exposed pipes
- Frequent leaks or pipe repairs
You don’t have to wait for an emergency. A quick pressure test now can prevent hundreds—or even thousands—of dollars in damage later.
Need a Plumbing Pro You Can Trust?
Whether you’re in Gresham, Clackamas, or the Greater Portland area, Da Vinci’s Best Plumbing is your local expert for dependable service and fair pricing. From water pressure testing to full spring inspections, we’ve got your home covered.
Contact us today to schedule a spring pressure test or request a plumbing evaluation.