Why Fluctuating Water Pressure May Signal a Bigger Plumbing Issue in Marietta

Description: Learn how changes in your Marietta home's water pressure may indicate larger plumbing problems. Home inspectors reveal the warning signs every homeowner should know.

Introduction:

If you’ve ever turned on your shower in the morning in your Marietta home only to be greeted with a weak drizzle—or worse, a burst of pressure that could strip paint—you’re not alone. Fluctuating water pressure is one of the most common plumbing complaints we hear about during home inspections in Atlanta and its surrounding suburbs.

But here’s the thing: inconsistent water pressure isn’t just a minor annoyance. It often points to deeper issues hiding in your plumbing system—ones that could lead to burst pipes, costly water damage, or even mold.

As a Marietta home inspector, I’ve seen firsthand how overlooked water pressure problems can evolve into serious (and expensive) structural risks. In this blog, we’ll dive into what causes pressure changes, what they mean, and what you should do if it’s happening in your home.

What Causes Water Pressure to Fluctuate in Georgia Homes?

1. Partially Closed or Corroded Shutoff Valves

• Valves under sinks, toilets, and at the main water line can restrict flow

• Mineral buildup from Georgia’s hard water can clog valve internals

2. Aging Galvanized Plumbing

• Common in homes built before 1970 in areas like Decatur and East Cobb

• Galvanized pipes corrode internally, narrowing the pipe and restricting flow

3. Municipal Supply Issues

• Sudden changes in city water pressure can affect multiple homes

• A broken main or fire hydrant use nearby can trigger drops

4. Pressure Reducing Valve (PRV) Failure

• PRVs regulate water pressure entering your home

• A failing PRV can cause surges or drops in pressure across fixtures

Georgia Plumbing Code 604.8 requires a PRV if pressure exceeds 80 psi in residential plumbing

5. Hidden Leaks in Crawlspaces or Slabs

• Leaks reduce pressure and increase utility bills

• Slab leaks are especially difficult to detect without inspection tools

6. Water Heater Malfunctions

• Sediment buildup or faulty valves in the water heater can create pressure imbalance

• Homes with recirculating systems may experience inconsistent hot water pressure

Why You Shouldn’t Ignore Pressure Swings

• Sudden high pressure can burst aging pipes or damage appliances

• Low pressure may indicate a leak or blockage in your main line

• Ongoing pressure fluctuations may cause:

  • Pipe vibrations or hammering sounds

  • Shortened lifespan of plumbing fixtures

  • Mold growth in hidden areas due to unnoticed leaks

Real-World Example: We recently inspected a home in Smyrna where fluctuating water pressure turned out to be a slab leak that had slowly undermined the foundation. The sellers had dismissed it as a "minor plumbing quirk"—but it cost $15,000 in structural repairs.

How Marietta Home Inspectors Diagnose Pressure Problems

1. Use of Water Pressure Gauges – Checking main pressure and fixture consistency

2. Visual Plumbing Inspection – Checking visible pipes for corrosion or damage

3. Thermal Imaging & Moisture Readings – To detect hidden leaks in walls or slabs

4. Testing Shutoff Valves & PRVs – Inspecting for obstructions or valve failures

Common Questions About Fluctuating Water Pressure in Georgia Homes

Q: Can fluctuating water pressure damage my appliances? A: Yes. Dishwashers, water heaters, and washing machines are all sensitive to pressure swings.

Q: Is this something a plumber should check, or an inspector? A: Both. Inspectors help diagnose the source during a comprehensive inspection; plumbers then handle repairs.

Q: Should I be concerned if the pressure only drops occasionally? A: Yes—intermittent problems are often early warning signs of a developing issue.

Q: What’s the ideal water pressure for homes in Atlanta? A: Between 50 and 75 psi. Over 80 psi requires a pressure-reducing valve by code.

Preventing Pressure Problems in Marietta Homes

• Annual inspections of plumbing systems, especially in homes older than 30 years

• Water pressure tests during your Atlanta property inspection

• Install or replace PRVs when pressure exceeds code thresholds

• Replace outdated plumbing materials (e.g., galvanized or polybutylene)

Call to Action

Worried about inconsistent water pressure or an unexplained spike in your water bill? Let’s find the cause before it becomes a costly emergency. Schedule your inspection today at www.reynoldshomeandpropertysolutions.com