Why Does Coppell Have High Water Pressure?

We’re used to a few key plumbing and water quality complaints from Dallas-Fort Worth residents. So we were surprised to have several Coppell homeowners reach out with questions about why they’re experiencing high water pressure.

Our master plumbers did a little homework, and it’s true — there’s a surge of high water pressure in Coppell, Texas right now. 

While every home’s plumbing system is different, your local increase is likely caused by 3 primary factors: lack of a pressure reducing valve (PRV), water heater expansion tank problems, or municipal water supply issues.

If you’re experiencing high water pressure, Mother offers expert home water testing services for water pressure regulation. We’ll locate the source of your increased pressure fast, and get you back to a normal operating range.

Call Mother for home water pressure testing and PRV installation: (682) 214-3163

High Water Pressure = High Water Bills

Why should elevated water pressure matter to Coppell residents? Simple: it has a direct impact on your already-high utility bills.

The City Council approved a new utility rate hike that raises your water usage rate. Lots of utilities are increasing your rates to deal with high demand — that same demand can drive cities to increase water pressure to serve more homes.

That’s the Catch-22 of the situation in Coppell: water pressure goes up to serve more homes, but causes more burst pipes and leaks along the way. That means you pay more for wasted water due to utility rate hikes.

3 Reasons for High Water Pressure in Coppell Homes

There are several reasons why a house might experience higher-than-average water pressure. Some of these don’t apply to Coppell — for example, DFW area water pressure isn’t higher than average.

There are 3 location-specific reasons why your home might have high water pressure:

1. Lack of pressure reducing valves. Homes with above 80 PSI water pressure should install a pressure reducing valve (PRV) to reduce it.
2. Water heater expansion tanks. Older water heaters may have expansion tank malfunctions — or they may not have expansion tanks at all.
3. The municipal water supply. Fluctuations in Coppell’s municipal water supply can be caused by maintenance, or increased water usage during peak usage hours.

Does your home have a pressure reducing valve?

A pressure reducing valve (PRV) regulates and reduces water pressure from the main water supply into your home or residence. PRVs reduce water flow and leak risks, making them a valuable tool in the fight to decrease water pressure.

PRVs are also helpful in local water conservation efforts. Nearby cities like Plano offer rebates for PRV installation, as they help lower water usage throughout your home.

Hire a professional plumber to install your PRV to ensure it’s fitted correctly and up to code. Trusted brands like Moen offer smart tech options compatible with your PRV.

Does your water heater have an expansion tank? (You need one)

Your water heater expansion tank safeguards your plumbing system against water pressure increases caused by thermal expansion.

Thermal expansion occurs when water is heated. Hot water expands to take up more space, and the expansion tank is where it goes. If your expansion tank malfunctions, there’s nowhere for all that pressure to be released.

Your expansion tank usually contains a rubber bladder or diaphragm that separates air from water. If that diaphragm isn’t working, the compressed air stays in your plumbing.

If your water heater was installed a long time ago, it may not even have an expansion tank. If you have an old water heater and high water pressure, it’s your likely culprit.

Water heaters are now required to have an expansion tank by city building codes.

Is DWU raising pressure in the Coppell TX water supply?

The City of Coppell purchases its water from Dallas Water Utilities (DWU). DWU gets its water from surface sources (lakes and rivers) — this doesn’t contribute to water pressure issues.

DWU does conduct regular maintenance (both scheduled and unscheduled) to its drinking water system. These maintenance events may cause short spikes in water pressure. 

The real reason that DWU may increase water pressure to Coppell is increased demand (as we stated earlier). More homes to serve = more water pressure needed to reach them all.

How High Water Pressure Affects Coppell Water Conservation

The City of Coppell has a comprehensive water conservation plan to combat drought and water shortage issues. This plan includes a 4-stage water usage schedule that includes lawn irrigation, swimming pools, landscaping and washing.

Homes with elevated water pressure have a stronger flow of water. This means you’re using more water without meaning to do so — this may cause your household to go over water usage restrictions. 

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Recent increases to Coppell TX water usage rate

The City of Coppell increased its water usage rate in 2024. If your home has elevated water pressure issues, this rate hike impacts you significantly.

The higher your water pressure, the more water is pushed through your pipes. That means more water usage — and with prices going up, that’s bad news for your monthly water bill.

Note for seniors and disabled residents: Lowering your water pressure saves you money! Coppell offers a 10% water rate discount for disabled persons and seniors 65 years and older. Visit their website and learn how to receive yours.

How High Water Pressure Damages Your Plumbing

Increased water pressure causes more problems than a big water bill. All that added pressure wreaks havoc on your home plumbing system, putting strain on your pipes and fixtures.

Here are 9 plumbing problems that can be directly caused by high water pressure:

1. Appliance damage
2. Error codes on tankless water heaters
3. In-home pipe leaks
4. In-home pipe bursts
5. Underground pipe leaks
6. Underground pipe bursts
7. Faucet leaks
8. Toilets won’t stop running
9. “Squealing” noisy pipes

Lower your pressure, lower your water bill: Elevated pressure causes hidden leaks in your plumbing that raise your water bill. Electronic leak detection can save you money.

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How to Test for High Water Pressure 

It’s relatively simple to conduct a home water pressure test. You’ll need a water pressure gauge — you can buy a fine one at a big box store for $12-$15. 

Once you purchase your water pressure gauge, follow this simple step-by-step guide:

1. Turn off all home water outlets. This includes showers, washing machines, dishwashers, faucets and outdoor sprinklers.
2. Attach the water pressure gauge. Go to a hose bib/outdoor faucet. Remove any attached hoses, and screw the gauge tightly onto the faucet.
3. Run the water. Turn the water on to the outdoor faucet.
4. Read your gauge. The reading on your water pressure gauge is measured in pounds per square inch (PSI).
5. Turn off the water. Note your gauge reading, then turn off water to the outdoor faucet.

Don’t feel comfortable doing this yourself? That’s okay — plenty of people don’t! We’re happy to come test your home water pressure. Give us a call: (682) 214-3163

Reading your water pressure test results

Here’s how to interpret the reading you got on your water pressure gauge, and what to do in each case:

The average PSI of a normal home water system is roughly 60 PSI (pounds per square inch). 

A range of 50-70 PSI reflects a moderate flow of water that’s good for dishwashers, washing machines, and strong (but not overwhelming) showers.

Coppell’s website states the average PSI of local homes is 35-80 PSI. It’s interesting to note that they have a specific section dedicated to high pressure issues.

Worried About Coppell Water Pressure?

You’re not overreacting! A burst pipe or underground leak costs thousands to repair and adds hundreds to your monthly water bill. Getting your water pressure under control saves your household budget and provides priceless peace of mind.

Reach out ASAP if your Coppell water pressure test shows 80+ PSI, or if you’re concerned about damaged pipes and fixtures from elevated water pressure.

Call Mother for home water pressure testing and PRV installation: (682) 214-3163