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.
A water pressure regulator is a dome-shaped brass fitting that is generally found just past the main shutoff valve, where the main water line enters the house. It usually has an adjustment screw on top.
A water pressure regulator, also known as a pressure-reducing valve (PRV), is a valve that reduces water pressure as it passes into a home. When water enters a home through the main water line, its pressure is typically too high for the home's plumbing to handle.
The pressure regulator is usually installed downstream (on the house side) of the water meter, near the house on new installations.
Look on the main supply pipe near your water meter for a conical valve that has a bolt sticking out of the cone. To raise pressure, turn the bolt clockwise after loosening its locknut. Keep an eye on the gauge to make sure the pressure is within bounds, then retighten the locknut.
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.
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.
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.
Do All Homes Have a Water Pressure Regulator? No, and in some cases, you may not need one. Certain municipal supplies regulate their water pressure safely, but if that pressure runs above 80 psi, you'll want to protect your plumbing system by installing one.
Water pressure regulator replacement: $250 to $1,000. Pipe section replacement: $500 to $4,000.
While pressure-reducing valves reduce or limit incoming pressures, pressure regulators maintain constant outlet pressures regardless of upstream or downstream fluctuations.
Soaking the valve in a calcium and lime remover loosens up and dissolves unwanted mineral deposits. After rinsing the components clean, the plumber reassembles the valve, which should now function without undue restrictions. Pressure regulator valves come in two main styles: direct acting and pilot operated.
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.
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.
Adjust the Pressure-Reducing Valve
Protruding from the top of the valve is a threaded bolt. To raise pressure, loosen the bolt's locking nut, then turn the bolt clockwise. Use the pressure gauge to determine when you reach a water pressure around 50 PSI. Then, tighten the locknut to secure the valve.
This is a serious concern—water pressure that's too high is difficult to contain, and could leak to plumbing leaks, worn seals, and damaged fixtures. It could even shorten the lifespan of your appliances that depend on a water connection like your washing machine, ice maker, dishwasher, and more.
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.
Where is it located? 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.
The difference between a pressure regulator and a pressure relief valve is that relief valve is a safety feature, used as a last stop measure to prevent any accidents. Whereas, a pressure regular works within the system to maintain a steady pressure level the entire time.