Some of the first signs of a failing pressure regulator are a leaking water heater or commode. The water coming from a faucet may also exit with such force that splashing or water “hammering” may occur.
What Happens When a PRV Fails? If a PRV fails and the water pressure in your home gets too high, it can cause a range of problems. These problems can include: Leaking appliances: High water pressure can cause appliances like washing machines and dishwashers to leak or fail prematurely.
Leaking and Strange Noises
PRV valve leaking usually means there's a hole in your valve. If you see pressure relief valve leaking, flooding, or if you hear strange noises coming from your PRV, it's time for a replacement.
Water pressure regulators need replacement about once every 4 to 12 years. While some PRVs may last longer than others, manufacturers recommend swapping out your regulator at least once every 5 years to prevent damage. Your home will show signs when your regulator may be failing.
Water pressure regulator replacement: $250 to $1,000. Pipe section replacement: $500 to $4,000.
These mineral deposits accumulate inside of the valve body, leading to lower-than-intended home water pressure. In most cases, a plumber can resolve this issue by disassembling and cleaning out your regulator valve. Soaking the valve in a calcium and lime remover loosens up and dissolves unwanted mineral deposits.
The price of pressure reducing valves starts at around $50. You can expect to pay around $350 for a professional plumber to install a new pressure reducing valve.
Pressure relief valve replacement costs an average of $220 between parts and labor, or anywhere from $50 to $300.
Pressure Relief Valve – $20 to $200
If you notice that the valve is consistently leaking, it may mean that the tank's pressure is too high, or you might simply have a faulty/clogged valve. The cost of a new pressure relief valve is about $20, and repairs may total to $200.
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.
After installation, test the water pressure, and adjust the regulator, if necessary. To adjust, loosen the locknut on the adjustment screw, then turn the screw up or down until the water pressure is at the desired level, as measured by a pressure gauge attached to a threaded hose bib somewhere in the home.
Normal water pressure is generally between 40 and 60 PSI. Most homeowners prefer something right in the middle around 50 PSI.
WARNING: Under normal conditions, the useful safe service life of a pressure relief valve is 10 years from the original date of manufacture. However, the safe useful life of the valve may be shortened and replacement required in less than 10 years depending on the environment in which the valve lives.
Temperature changes – As the temperature increases in your plumbing system, water will expand and pressure will increase. This can occur as water is heated by the water heater, especially if it has a defective expansion tank or pressure relief valve.
Once the valve releases the pressure, it can be reset within seconds by moving the reset handle.
How long will a Water Pressure Reducing Valve last? The life expectancy of a water pressure regulator is most commonly in the range of 10 to 15 years. However, you may see a regulator malfunction at three years and one still properly functioning at 20 years old if regularly maintained.
Plumbers usually charge for their work by the hour, and the national average cost is about $100 per hour plus a service fee or minimum charge. Overall, hourly rates for plumbing can range from $25 to $200, depending on the experience level of the plumber and on the repair needed.
If the PRV is improperly adjusted, or has failed, it can result in a pressure loss or even no water downstream.
While pressure-reducing valves reduce or limit incoming pressures, pressure regulators maintain constant outlet pressures regardless of upstream or downstream fluctuations.
When vapor and other compressible fluid pass through the pressure-reducing portion of the pressure relief valve, the fluid's mechanical energy is converted into sound energy, and the water regulator produces an audible nuisance.
Install a pressure regulator
The pressure regulator protects your sanitary installation from overpressure and therefore from water hammer. It also prevents wear and tear on your sanitary fittings and household appliances such as washing machines and dishwashers.