Water Pressure Too High? How to Check Your Regulator

Water pressure that's too high feels great in the shower but quietly hammers your fixtures, appliances, and pipe joints — and it's a leading hidden cause of leaks and burst washer hoses. Four steps let you check and correct it: test the pressure, find the regulator, adjust slowly, and recheck.

How do I test my home's water pressure?

Use an inexpensive hose-bib pressure gauge — screw it onto an outdoor spigot or laundry faucet, turn the water full on, and read the dial. Home pressure should generally sit around 40–60 psi; above ~70–80 psi is hard on your system. Test with other water off for an accurate reading.

Where is the water pressure regulator?

The pressure regulator (PRV) is a bell-shaped valve usually located where the main water line enters the house — near the main shutoff, often in a basement, crawlspace, or near the meter. Locate yours so you can adjust or replace it. Not every home has one; if pressure is high and there's no regulator, a plumber can add one.

How do I adjust the water pressure regulator?

Adjust slowly. Loosen the lock nut, then turn the adjustment screw — clockwise raises pressure, counterclockwise lowers it — a little at a time. Make small turns rather than cranking it. Then retighten the lock nut. Patience here avoids overshooting and stressing the valve.

Should I recheck after adjusting?

Always — recheck the pressure with your gauge after any adjustment to confirm you've landed in the 40–60 psi range. Pressure changes aren't always linear, so verify rather than assume. If you can't get it into range, or the regulator is old and erratic, it may need replacing (a plumber's job).

Log your pressure reading

Recording your psi and any regulator adjustment helps you spot drift over time. Okoniq Property Hub keeps it with your home maintenance records in one private place.

Frequently asked questions

What are signs of high water pressure?

Banging pipes (water hammer), running toilets, dripping faucets, short-lived appliances, and frequent leaks. A gauge reading over ~75 psi confirms it.

Can high water pressure damage appliances?

Yes — it strains dishwashers, washing machines, water heaters, and their hoses and valves, shortening their life and raising flood risk. Keeping pressure in range protects them.

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