Test Water Pressure
Why It Matters
High water pressure slowly destroys pipe joints, fixtures, and appliance connections. Low pressure signals bigger problems.
Quick Guide
- 1
Gather your tools and materials
You'll need: Water pressure gauge. Materials required: necessary materials.
- 2
Perform the test water pressure
Use a pressure gauge on an outdoor spigot to check that water pressure is between 40-80 PSI.
- 3
Verify and clean up
Check that the work was completed correctly and clean up your workspace. If if pressure is above 80 psi or below 40 psi, consider calling a professional.
Tools & Materials
Tools
- Water pressure gauge
Community Tips
Water pressure should ideally fall between 40-80 PSI for most residential plumbing; anything above 80 PSI can damage fixtures and waste water, while below 40 PSI indicates potential supply line issues or regulator failure. Testing during morning hours before peak usage provides the most accurate baseline reading.
The Watts Water Pressure Test Kit ($15-25) features color-coded gauges readable to ±5 PSI and includes adapters for all standard faucet types, making it more reliable than basic analog gauges that often drift over time and cause misdiagnosis of actual pressure problems.
High water pressure above 100 PSI frequently causes pinhole leaks in copper pipes within 3-5 years and premature failure of toilet fill valves and washing machine hoses -- if readings exceed this threshold, a pressure-reducing valve installation becomes a necessary investment rather than optional maintenance. ---