Mustang Valley Water’s distribution system is a gravity system. The water is pumped from underground to a tower/tank. When a customer turns on the tap, earth’s gravity causes the water to flow downhill from the tank to the faucet. The water pressure at a tap on the MVWSC system is determined by the elevation (vertical distance) of the tap relative to the elevation of our water tower; it is not determined by the physical distance from the water pump.

A greater height difference = greater water pressure.
A lesser height difference = lower water pressure.

Keep it “Just Right”

Bosque County has a lot of hills, and that means we have a great variation in pressure throughout the system. High water pressure can put a strain on pipes, appliances and fixtures, and may even cause a water heater to burst. Low pressure may mean your washing machine takes forever to fill. That’s why it’s good to test your water pressure from time to time.

To keep the pressure right at your house, those who live on a hilltop may find they need to install a pressure tank on their hilltop, while customers in low lying areas may need to replace the Pressure Reducing Valve (PRV) if they start to experience unusually high pressure.

Testing Your Pressure Is Easy

You can purchase a pressure gauge from most local hardware stores for under $20. Hook it up to a hose faucet. Make sure all faucets and appliances are turned off, then check the gauge. Pressure ranges between 35 and 80 psi are just right for most homes.

Mustang Valley Water maintains all equipment to the meter. Equipment beyond the meter is maintained by the member. MVWSC recommends contacting a plumber right away if your pressure at the faucet is high.

Factors that can lower pressure may be small pipes, adding an additional bathroom, water filters, water softeners, rust and mineral buildup, a failing PRV, or even a hidden leak.