Search guides

How to fix high water pressure

We'll reduce high water pressure with a PRV or adjustment.

How-to · Home plumbing
30–90 min
What you'll need
  • Pressure gauge (screws onto outdoor faucet)
  • Pressure-reducing valve (if installing new)
  • Pipe fittings and tools (if installing)

At a glance

  • Measure the pressure with a gauge at an outdoor faucet—normal is 40–80 psi; above 80 can cause damage.
  • Install a pressure-reducing valve (PRV) on the main line if you do not have one.
  • Adjust an existing PRV by turning the screw—counterclockwise usually lowers pressure.
  • Set the pressure to 50–60 psi for most homes; too low causes weak flow, too high stresses pipes.
  • Call a plumber if the PRV will not adjust, leaks, or you need one installed.
Quick triage — pick your path

Get started

Choose the option that matches what you see. You can jump straight to that section.

Steps

Goal: Reduce water pressure to a safe level.

  • Measure the pressure with a gauge. Note the reading.
  • Good: Pressure is above 80 psi—needs reduction. Proceed to Locate or install PRV.
  • Bad: Pressure is already 40–80—may not need changes.

Locate or install PRV

Goal: Find the PRV or install one.

  • If you have a PRV, adjust the screw. If not, install one on the main line.
  • Good: PRV is in place. Proceed to Set pressure.
  • Bad: PRV will not adjust or you need installation—call a plumber.

Set pressure

Goal: Achieve 50–60 psi at the fixtures.

  • Turn the adjustment screw. Recheck with the gauge. Aim for 50–60 psi.
  • Good: Pressure is in range. Proceed to Verification.
  • Bad: Pressure will not drop—PRV may be faulty; replace or call a plumber.

When to get help

Call a plumber if:

  • You need to install a PRV and are not comfortable cutting the main line.
  • The PRV leaks or will not hold the set pressure.
  • The pressure gauge still reads high after adjustment.

Verification

  • Pressure gauge reads 50–60 psi (or 40–80 at minimum).
  • No leaks at the PRV or connections.
  • Fixtures have normal flow without harsh spraying.

Reviewed by Blackbox Atlas

Rate this guide

Was this helpful?

Continue to