Water Pressure Reducing Valve: The Basics

While you may not give much thought to your water pressure, having the right water pressure in your home is critical. Mains water pressure needs to be sufficiently high to cater to the needs of firefighting, high-rise plumbing, and water towers and tanks. But mains water pressures which can exceed 200psi are not safe for homes. High water pressure can put the pipes, fixtures, and people in your home at risk. A water pressure reducing valve may be the answer to help lower household water pressure.

What is a Water Pressure Reducing Valve?

Water pressure valves are specially designed plumbing fittings that are installed directly after a water meter in homes and help to reduce incoming high water pressure to a lower, safer pressure. The two types of water pressure reducing valves are direct acting and pilot operated, with direct acting being the more popular option. Water pressure valves consist of a body that contains a diaphragm connected to a spring. The spring holds a preset tension on the valve, installed with a pressure control to reduce the incoming water pressure.

As water flows into the valve from the mains supply it is directed into the inner chamber of the valve controlled by the spring-loaded diaphragm. This maintains the outgoing water pressure at the level you have set, no matter what the incoming pressure (as long as it is above your preset pressure).

Benefits of Water Pressure Reducing Valves

• One of the most important benefits of water pressure reducing valves is that they protect your pipes and your plumbing fittings. High water pressure can put a strain on pipes causing them to rupture, or promote damage to plumbing fittings leading to leaks.
• High water pressure can increase plumbing maintenance costs by exacerbating issues with your plumbing. Water pressure reducing valves can help to save money on plumbing maintenance.
• Water pressure reducing valves save water, a precious natural resource. A lower water flow means less water is used which results in utility and environmental savings.
• Water pressure reducing valves help to create energy savings because when water is flowing at a lower pressure, less energy needs to be used to heat water.
• Water pressure reducing valves also help to minimize waste water, as less pressure results in a lower volume. This reduces the wastewater treatment load and further protects the environment.

Does My Home Need A Water Pressure Reducing Valve?

In homes with high water pressure problems, a water pressure reducing valve can provide amazing benefits for a minimal investment.

Your home may benefit from a water pressure reducing valve if you experience:

• High water pressure and splash back in sinks
• Banging pipes caused by ‘water hammer’
• Frequent leaks, pipe ruptures, and dropping faucets
• Excessive noise from water using appliances such as the dishwasher or washing machine.

If you’re thinking of installing a water pressure reducing valve, correctly sizing and fitting the water pressure reducing valve is essential. Water pressure reducing valves should be fitted according to the existing water pressure rather than the size of the pipe to prevent early failure.

If you think that a water pressure reducing valve could benefit your plumbing, contact Magnificent Plumbing and Rooter today. Our experienced team can properly size and fit a valve for your home to provide outstanding performance that protects and preserves your plumbing.