Emergency Dispatch
Please call our Emergency Dispatch to report problems such as water main breaks and service outages.
Water Pressure Issues
Low Water Pressure
Low water pressure is generally described as not enough water in the system and may often be confused with low flow. Low pressures or flows can be caused by two factors:
- Pipe restrictions, such as your main valve being partially closed, or the screens on individual faucets needing cleaning or,
- A malfunctioning pressure reducing valve (PRV).
After you have investigated to see if either of these issues is restricting your flows or pressure, call Prince William Water’s Emergency Dispatch at (703) 335-7990 to schedule a pressure check at your service.
High Water Pressure
High pressure is generally described as too much pressure that causes your internal plumbing lines to bang, your hot water pressure relief valve to trip, or faucet washers to wear out very quickly.
A malfunctioning pressure reducing valve (PRV) can cause both high and low water pressure. PRVs are the homeowner's responsibility to install and/or maintain. The plumbing code recommends PRVs be installed where the service pressure is 80 psi or more.
Since the pressure at your point-of-use is determined by the difference between the elevation of the water level in the water tank serving your area and the elevation of your service connection, the higher the difference between these levels, the higher your pressure.
If you are experiencing unusually high pressure, call Prince William Water’s Emergency Dispatch at (703) 335-7990 to schedule a pressure check at your service.