You might want to alert our Springdale residents to an insidious problem I recently became aware of: A couple weeks ago, there was a sudden, spontaneous failure of the 'mixer valve' in a recently remodeled tub/shower enclosure. The tub/shower was not in use at the time when the mixer valve cartridge ruptured internally, making a loud screaming noise and pouring cold water into the tub. (We were fortunate that it did not leak into the wall behind the enclosure.) The plumber arrived a couple hours later and replaced the failed cartridge. I mentioned to him that I had replaced my gas water heater relief valve when it started leaking - and then replace the new relief valve when it started leaking - and this one also leaked! He asked if I'd like my water pressure tested; and it showed the water pressure being delivered to our house was 110 PSI! I had him install a pressure regulating valve; and it is now set at 60 PSI (valve factory setting is 50, range is 25 to 75). I spoke with several neighbors and learned many of them had been aware of excess pressure and had had pressure regulating valves installed in their homes. When the plumber installed ours, we tested the pressure on my next door neighbor's house - and it was 90 PSI. That neighbor had a pressure regulating valve promptly installed in his house. A third neighbor's tested at 85 PSI. Needless to say, most plumbing components are not designed to handle these excessive pressure levels - and looking back on it - we experienced several plumbing failure episodes that most likely were due to this high pressure. At 100 PSI, if the hoses to your washing machine rupture, it can very quickly flood that area of you home. Frankly, I think it is irresponsible of the city to deliver their 'product' to its customers at that pressure; but it's better to be aware of the problem than experience fixture failures and/or a flood - that's the reason for this email. ---> Concerned neighbor If you have a water pressure guage and would be willing to test the pressure at a few of your neighbors' houses, please let us know. If you would like to get your water pressure tested, let us know. We will try to match you up. ---> Webmaster