Water Pressure
The most frequent calls we get are about water pressure in the City of Scottsdale. This section will answer some of the most common questions about water pressure.Q: What is the water pressure for the City of Scottsdale?
A: The City of Scottsdale provides water pressure from 40 psi to 120 psi. Due to the different elevations of the city, it is not feasible to provide a constant pound per square inch of pressure in every part of the city.
Q: I have fluctuating water pressure. What is happening?
A: Low or fluctuating water pressure may have several causes. One could be that demand is high for water at certain times of the day (7-9 a.m. and 4-7 p.m.). You may notice fluctuating pressure during these peak times. You can do your part by planning your high water use activities (lawn watering, pool filling, etc.) for off peak times.
We ask our customers who are experiencing low pressure to check the water pressure at their front hose bibs. If there is good pressure there, the low pressure inside may be due to something else, like a water softening system. We then ask our customers to bypass their water softening systems, and check to see if the water pressure comes back. If the pressure resumes after bypassing the water softener system, customers are wise to contact the company that installed the system for maintenance.
Fluctuating pressure may also have to do with your home's PRV (pressure regulating valve). The City began requiring that all new buildings have a PRV installed in 1995. This valve protects your home's plumbing from failing due to extreme fluctuations in water pressure. Over time, PRV's may become stuck open or closed causing varying water pressure. A licensed plumber can evaluate your PRV to determine whether it is failing. If your home was built prior to 1995 and your pressure is 80 psi or higher, the City recommends a PRV be installed. This item is part of your private plumbing and should be installed and serviced by a licensed professional plumber.
Q: How can I find out what my water pressure is?
A: The Water & Wastewater Operations department has water pressure gauges available for check out at our office. We are located at 9312 N 94th St. and are open M-F from 7:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Water pressure gauges may also be purchased from home improvement or hardware stores.
