Why do you need a water pressure regulator?

Asked by: Jamie Afara

1. A Water Regulator Valve May Be Needed to Save Water. 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.

Is water pressure regulator necessary?

Although it is not necessary for every plumbing installation, a water pressure regulator can be essential in situations where the municipal water supply enters the home at a very high pressure, or where water pressure is irregular.

What is the purpose of a water pressure regulator?

A water pressure regulator is a plumbing valve that reduces the water pressure coming from the main water line into the house. This valve brings down the pressure to a safe level before the water reaches any plumbing fixtures inside the home.

Where should a water pressure regulator be installed?

Usually, water pressure regulators are installed where your main water line comes into your house, after the main shutoff valve. Measure your current pressure to get a baseline. Get a pressure gauge (available at most hardware and home improvement stores) and screw it onto one of your outdoor spigots.

Does every house have a water pressure regulator?

No, not all homes have a water pressure regulator.



Whether you need a regulator depends on the water pressure from the municipal supply. If the city’s water lines run at pressures above 80psi, then you’ll need one to protect your pipes. In some cases, the water supply may be variable depending on the time of the day.

What is the normal water pressure for a house?

between 40 and 60 PSI

Normal water pressure is generally between 40 and 60 PSI. Most homeowners prefer something right in the middle around 50 PSI. Once you measure the water pressure in your house, you can adjust it to a setting that is ideal for all family members and household uses.

Should I install a pressure reducing valve?

A pressure reducing valve isn’t tricky to install, but a professional plumber should install it unless the homeowner has some plumbing and soldering skills. A pressure reducing valve will reduce your water pressure to a rate that will be safer for your plumbing.

Does reducing water pressure save water?

The higher the pressure, the higher the savings. Lower pressures result in less savings. (Your water Company can provide the rate.)

Where should a pressure reducing valve be located?

The Pressure Reducing Valve is designed to regulate the high water pressure supplied by the city to a level that is safe for homes. It is installed on the main water line. This is most commonly in the front flower bed, but it could also be behind an access panel in an inside wall.

Will a water pressure regulator increase water pressure?

Keeping the water pressure in your home at a safe level can help keep your pipes, fixtures and appliances safe. Pressure regulators help reduce high water pressure coming from your municipal supplier, but sometimes they need to be adjusted to either lower or raise your water pressure.

Is 70 psi too high for water pressure?

How High Is Too High? The ideal water pressure level is between 50-70 PSI. If your water pressure goes above 70 PSI (even occasionally), you should install a pressure regulator to your main water line.

What PSI should a water pressure regulator be set at?

The factory setting on a pressure regulator is normally between 45 to 55 psi. However, you may need pressure regulation between 40 and 70 psi to have proper water pressure throughout your home.