High Water Pressure Notice

Water System Pressure

  • Water System Pressure > 80psi

The City of West Richland is providing this notice as a courtesy to provide general information about water system pressure in the southern areas of West Richland which typically exceeds 80 psi. Please use the following link for a detailed map of the area with water pressure in excess of 80 psi. View the Map of Affected Areas (PDF)

Residential Water Pressure

Please note that while the City's water system pressure may be greater than 80 pounds per square inch (psi), the water pressure within your home may be substantially lower, depending on the size of the plumbing pipe used during the construction of your home.

The plumbing in residential homes is typically designed to handle 80 psi or less. With water pressures greater than 80 psi, there is the potential risk of a fixture or plumbing pipe leaking or rupturing (i.e. hose to the washing machine, dishwasher, etc).

Many homes within the identified area already have a pressure-reducing valve installed within their homes, but some may not. The City is recommending that residents first check the water pressure at their homes. If you need assistance with checking your home's water pressure, please call the building department at 967-5902.

Water System Improvements

Planned water system improvements will increase the existing water pressure in this area by an additional 5 to 10 psi. If it is determined that your water pressure is 70 psi or more, the City is recommending that homeowners install a pressure-reducing valve. This plumbing modification does require the homeowner to obtain a no-cost plumbing permit from the City's building department.

If you have any questions or concerns about this notice or how to obtain a City plumbing permit to install a pressure-reducing valve, please contact the City of West Richland's Building Department at 509-967-5902.