What is a Water Pressure Regulator?
Low water pressure is frequently noticed by homeowners when it affects household fixtures such as faulty shower heads and faucets, but high water pressure is frequently overlooked. High water pressure is not only less visible to the naked eye than low water pressure, but it is also far more expensive if it persists over time. This is where a water pressure regulator can come in and fix these issues.
What is a Water Pressure Regulator?
Overall, a water pressure regulator is a device that keeps high water pressure from ruining your home’s plumbing. With a working pressure regulator installed, you can rest assured that your pipes and appliances are safe.
This is also known as a pressure-reducing valve, or PRV. This is a type of plumbing valve that reduces the amount of water pressure that enters the home through the main water line. Before the water reaches any fixtures inside the house, this valve reduces the pressure to a safe level.
Too much water pressure can cause a variety of plumbing issues. Essentially, it is critical to keep the water pressure under control. Although it is not required for every plumbing installation, a water pressure regulator can be extremely advantageous. This is because in many cases, the municipal water supply enters the home with high or irregular water pressure.
How does a Water Pressure Regulator Work?
Water pressure regulators have an internal diaphragm and spring through which water must pass before entering a home’s plumbing. The more water pressure enters the regulator, the more pressure is applied to the spring.
As a result, less water passes through the regulator, lowering the water pressure as it enters the home’s pipes. What’s allowed into the house can be adjusted the tension of a screw on the regulator’s exterior.
Without a PRV, a home’s pipes are constantly stressed, causing them to deteriorate over time. This can lead to cracks in the pipes and water damage in the home. Regulators are critical in keeping pipes and appliances running smoothly in homes with high water pressure.
Putting in new plumbing or repiping your home can cost you thousands of dollars. That can be a huge burden on you and your home. Taking care of high water pressure before it causes damage to your plumbing will ultimately save you money and time.
Do I Already Have a Water Pressure Regulator?
If you get your water from the city lines, you probably already have a pressure regulator. If you’re not sure whether your house has one, finding it is simple.
Locate your home’s main shut-off valve and look around. The PRV should be right next to the valve. If you can’t find your valve, look in your basement, garage, or down a ways by your water meter, if you have one. If you live in a cold climate, your valve will be placed in a warm area to avoid freezing.
Do I Need a Water Pressure Regulator?
These are required by building code in any homes that receive anything greater than 80 PSI. The water pressure in a household should be between 40 and 60 PSI. You can easily test your home’s water pressure with a pressure gauge and a garden hose adapter.
If you get your water from a city water system, your water pressure varies throughout the day. Water pressure in a water line dips and rises in situations where there is a sudden high demand for water, such as firefighting. A PRV can help to stabilize these fluctuations.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, knowing what a water pressure regulator is and how it can affect the pressure in your home is very important.
Call 1-Tom-Plumber
Don’t hesitate to contact us here or call us at 1-Tom-Plumber (1-866-758-6237) if you need any plumbing help testing your water pressure or installing a water pressure regulator. 1-Tom-Plumber’s certified team of plumbers and drain technicians respond immediately to any emergency plumbing, drain cleaning, or water damage problem.
We also handle the excavation of underground water lines and sewer main lines. Our immediate-response team is available every day and night of the year, even on holidays.
