In homes across Billings and Laurel, water pressure is something homeowners often don’t think about—until it becomes a problem. Whether you’re dealing with a trickling shower or a forceful blast from the faucet, abnormal water pressure can be more than just an inconvenience. It can be a warning sign of underlying plumbing issues that should never be ignored. At Brown Plumbing, we help homeowners navigate these common concerns, from pressure regulation to long-term system health.
What Is “Normal” Water Pressure?
In most residential homes, the ideal water pressure falls between 40 and 60 PSI (pounds per square inch). If your pressure drops significantly below 40, daily tasks like showering or washing dishes can become frustrating. On the flip side, pressure above 80 PSI can strain your pipes, increase wear on fixtures, and even shorten the lifespan of appliances like dishwashers and washing machines.
Water pressure in Billings and Laurel can vary depending on the age of the plumbing system, elevation, and whether you’re on city water or a private well. Homes on the rim or in newer developments may experience different water pressure trends than those in older neighborhoods.
Signs Your Water Pressure May Be Off
Low water pressure often reveals itself in weak showers, slow-filling toilets, or faucets that barely flow. This could stem from clogged aerators, sediment buildup in pipes, or corroded supply lines—especially common in older homes around Laurel.
High pressure, on the other hand, might go unnoticed until you start experiencing noisy pipes (also known as “water hammer”), frequent leaks, or premature appliance failure. If you hear banging when you turn off a faucet or notice your water heater constantly running, these may be signs that your system is under too much strain.
Causes of Fluctuating Water Pressure
There are several reasons your home’s water pressure could suddenly change:
- Faulty pressure-reducing valve (PRV): This device controls the pressure entering your home. If it fails, pressure can swing too high or too low.
- Hidden leaks: A cracked or leaking pipe underground or behind a wall can lead to significant pressure loss—and costly water damage if not addressed.
- Sediment or mineral buildup: Montana’s water can be hard, leading to limescale buildup that narrows pipes and restricts flow.
- Municipal changes: Sometimes, changes made by your local water provider affect your pressure. New developments or maintenance work nearby can temporarily impact performance.
What You Can—and Should—Do
If you notice any changes in water pressure, don’t wait. Ignoring it could lead to burst pipes, water damage, or rising utility bills. One simple step is checking your home’s pressure using a gauge that attaches to an outdoor spigot. If it’s outside the normal range, that’s a sign it’s time to call a professional.
At Brown Plumbing, we offer full system inspections in both Billings and Laurel. We can test your pressure, inspect valves, locate hidden leaks, and recommend solutions like installing or replacing pressure regulators, upgrading outdated pipes, or flushing your system to remove buildup.
Call in the Experts
Pressure issues may seem small at first, but they often point to bigger plumbing concerns. Our team understands the unique water conditions in the Yellowstone Valley and has decades of experience keeping homes running smoothly year-round.
Don’t wait until a slow trickle or sudden burst turns into a major headache. Visit https://brownplbg.com today to schedule a water pressure checkup or plumbing consultation. We’ll help you restore balance—so every faucet, fixture, and shower works just the way it should.