Remember: a pressure regulator MUST be installed downstream (after) from all shut-off valves. A pressure regulating limit valve, with its different internal construction, CAN BE installed upstream (before) of a shut-off valve.
Pressure regulators are generally installed on the outflow side of the valves. It should be placed after the backflow preventer and filter.
Find a location for your regulator. It should be installed directly after your main shut-off valve. Installing it here ensures that the regulator protects all of your pipes from high water pressure. Take a pressure measurement of your incoming water before installing the regulator.
They also provide an accurate way to control the total amount of time the system is open. After the hose end timer, screw on the backflow preventer, then the filter, and then the pressure regulator.
A water pressure regulator, if you have one, is usually located where the main water line comes into the house and after the main shut off valve. This way if you need to work on or change the water pressure regulator you can simply shut off the water main to do so.
If the water pressure level coming into your home from the city exceeds 80 psi, you need a water pressure regulator. Reducing the system pressure 10 to 20 psi can save thousands of gallons a year in the typical home.
Unlike pressure-reducing regulators, a back-pressure regulator controls inlet pressure (upstream pressure) and is usually installed at the end of a line. On the other hand, a pressure-reducing regulator controls outlet pressure (downstream pressure) and is usually installed at the beginning of a line.
Where pressure-reducing regulators drop pressure where you want more control over the outlet or what's downstream of the regulator, back-pressure regulators look behind them, as the name implies. Back-pressure regulators control the upstream pressure and keep the pressure within a specified limit.
While pressure reducing valves are expected to be "one-way", water can indeed flow "backwards" from the downstream side of the system if that pressure exceeds the incoming pressure on the inlet side of the valve.
4. Water Leaks. Since the pressure relief valve removes excess hot water from your unit, it will naturally leak some water from time to time. But if it leaks excessively and often, you'll need to take a look at the valve.
Low water pressure can be caused by many things. Simple problems like the shut-off valve being closed or a faucet being blocked can cause low water pressure. More serious issues like plumbing blockage or water leaks decrease water pressure, too.
While pressure-reducing valves reduce or limit incoming pressures, pressure regulators maintain constant outlet pressures regardless of upstream or downstream fluctuations.
The primary difference between a pressure control valve and a pressure regulator is its function. A pressure control valve is used to regulate the flow of fluid or gas, while a pressure regulator is used to maintain the pressure of fluid or gas at a constant level.
The pressure relief valve is a safety feature that opens or closes whenever too much pressure needs releasing. On the other hand, the back pressure regulator is not a safety measure—it is an intrinsic part of the system meant to keep it at a steady pressure.
In the simplest terms, a valve controls flow and a regulator controls pressure. Since the use of process fluid pressure is a means for control, regulators are functional as pressure control valves. Another difference comes in relation to the design pressure rating of the body of the regulator.
A back pressure regulator is used to control the pressure of any fluid, gas, liquid or mixture in a system. Most pumping applications require back pressure to be maintained on the outlet of a pump, which is why back pressure regulators are so vitally important in pump environments.
How does a pressure regulator work? Water flows through the inlet, around the seat and through the t-stem. Water pressure acting on the diaphragm forces the spring to compress, pushing the t-stem toward the seat. The closing of the area between the seat and the t-stem reduces the water pressure on the diaphragm.
If water is leaking from the pressure regulator or tape-loc fittings, please check to be sure that all connections are tight. If so, try reducing the water pressure from the spigot ¼ -1/2 turn. Typically, this will eliminate any leakage.
Adding a Water Pressure Regulator Protects Your Appliances
High water pressure can prematurely wear out appliances like your dishwasher, washing machine, water softener, and water heater.
The life expectancy of your regulator is 10 to 15 years, but plumbing professionals suggest changing it once every eight years. The most common results of a bad water regulator are low or high water pressure. Running a pressure test can determine if your water pressure is too high or low.