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.
Generally speaking, most regulator valves have a life span of between 7 and 12 years. If you have recently noticed any abrupt changes in the water pressure in your home, an internal component in your pressure regulator may have failed.
However, most manufacturers recommended replacing water pressure regulators about once every five years to limit any potential damage high water pressure could have on the plumbing infrastructure.
Pressure reducing valves, like most components in your system, are subject to water quality and repetitive use. They should be inspected and cleaned at least once every 12 months.
When the PRV goes bad, it can cause pressure and water flow issues, weird noises, or just start to leak. This is a common issue in our service area. PRVs typically last between 8 and 15 years before one of these symptoms start to appear.
Excessive noise: If your hot water heater is rattling or emitting a high-pitched whistling noise, it's likely the sound of steam trying to escape the tank, which is a sign of far too much pressure pressing against the inner walls. This means the relief valve isn't doing its job and may need replacing.
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 regulator replacement: $250 to $1,000. Pipe section replacement: $500 to $4,000.
They are made with rubber parts and springs that will eventually wear out or get gummed up with particles in the water. Usually, PRVs fail slowly over time. It may take a while for you to notice there is an issue, especially if your usage habits aren't very demanding.
Testing your water pressure PSI (pounds per square inch) is the best way to determine if you need a water pressure regulator to avoid plumbing problems. A PSI between 50 and 70 is ideal. You're in the danger zone if you're hitting 80, and you may even be in code violation at that level.
To check a pressure regulator, release compression on the regulator spring by turning the adjusting knob counter-clockwise to open the outlet valve. Adjust the pressure regulator to approximately 80% of inlet pressure showing on the receiver side of the shut-off valve.
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.
If the water pressure regulator is not adjusted properly, you could have either too much, or too little pressure in your faucet or shower. With the right tools, you will be able to adjust the water pressure regulator by yourself instead of calling in the plumber.
What is a pressure regulator? Not all residences in the city have a pressure regulator, also called a pressure reducing valve (PRV). But if you do maintenance it is sometimes required. A water pressure regulator is a plumbing valve that reduces the water pressure coming from the main water line into the house.
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.
Normal psi for a home pipe system is between 30 and 80 psi. While you don't want the psi to be too low, it violates code to be above 80. Instead, you should aim for a psi that's between 60 and 70.
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.
Contaminants, like dirt, lint, rust, sludge, or even the misalignment of the valve can cause the pressure relief valve to stick. At this point, you might see that your system is above pressure, or you'll notice other pressure relief valves in the system releasing to make up for this valve's malfunction.
How do I know if I have a PRV? If you know where your water shut off valve is located, you can look for your PRV. It is typically within a few feet of this shutoff and it looks like a bell.