Q: I live in a condominium that’s about 40 years old. A plumber was repairing something the other day, saw that the main water valve had some corrosion and said he thought it should be replaced. Also, he discovered the water pressure was about 85. He said anything above 80 can damage the pipes, so we should get a water-pressure valve installed. Both of the repairs are about $700. Is it worth spending the money?
— S.H., Stow
A: Yes, Wadsworth plumber Cathy Geary said, but with a couple of caveats.
Geary said older-style main valves can sometimes continue to work with some corrosion, but you’re taking a chance. Should a pipe leak or burst, you might not be able to shut off your main water supply.
A water-pressure valve is also important, because water pressure that high will wear out your fixtures, she said. Water pressure of 50 to 55 pounds per square inch is average, she said, and fixtures aren’t made to handle pressure higher than 70 psi.
However, Geary wondered why your condo complex doesn’t have a main water-pressure valve for the whole complex. You might want to check whether it does, and if so, suggest it might not be working properly.
She also thought your estimate looked high and suggested you get quotes from other plumbers.
Have a question about home maintenance, decorating or gardening? Akron Beacon Journal home writer Mary Beth Breckenridge will find answers for the queries that are chosen to appear in the paper. To submit a question, call her at 330-996-3756, or send email to mbrecken@thebeaconjournal.com. Be sure to include your full name, your town and your phone number or email address.
