2

Here's the setup: I have a drip system for my plants that's run on a timer attached to my outside hose spigot. The spigot is constantly on, but for about 12 hours a day the timer is closed and no water is flowing through.

Is there a danger of pressure buildup from leaving the faucet on with nowhere for it to go? Will my water bill go up astronomically?

| improve this question | |
  • 1
    The pressure can't "build" past the pressure in the source system, so unless the hose between the spigot and the timer valve gives out, nothing will happen. – Carl Witthoft Apr 27 '16 at 11:28
8

As long as the attached timer is shut off and no water is flowing the pressure in the water line will be no different than what it would be when the spigot is turned off.

You water bill will reflect how much water that you actually use. The only way it could go up astronomically would be if the timer broke off the spigot or failed in an open mode where water was allowed to flow freely from the spigot for long periods of time.

| improve this answer | |
  • 1
    As an additional, the only things that will be stressed is the packing gland (faucet stem seal) or if it has it, a vacuum breaker. Modern faucets are built to deal with it, so as long as there isn't any water leaking from underneath the faucet handle, it's all ok. – Fiasco Labs Apr 27 '16 at 4:48
  • @Michael Thanks for the answer. I did not think about that it's the same as if the spigot is off but that makes perfect sense. Plumbing/water works is new territory for me. Definitely puts my mind at ease. – Chris Apr 27 '16 at 14:48

Your Answer

By clicking “Post Your Answer”, you agree to our terms of service, privacy policy and cookie policy

Not the answer you're looking for? Browse other questions tagged or ask your own question.