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I never heard someone say, “I couldn’t stand how strong the water pressure is in my house. I wish it wasn’t that high.”
Most of the time, people complain about their water pressure when it is not coming out on the fixture strong enough for them.
So, you might be wondering, why would we want to install a pressure-reducing valve in our homes when we want more pressure?
Here’s the deal! Often, the water coming into our home is under intense pressure, which can result in a plumbing system risk like pipe leaks, floods, and even busted appliances.
High water pressure decreases the lifespan of your plumbing system, from pipes and water heaters to dishwashers and showerheads.
Ultimately, having too much water pressure will inevitably cost you money! But, you can always prevent expensive repairs and damages by controlling the stress in your home using a pressure-reducing valve (PRV).
What is a Pressure Reducing Valve?
Pressure-reducing valves decrease the incoming high pressure of water into a lower and safer pressure for your home. They are normally installed on the main water line next to the shut-off valve.
As the water flows through the valve, it passes through the diaphragm that is connected to a spring and reduces the pressure to the desired level as the water moves from the valve through the other side.
A reducing valve can also be set to any desired downstream pressure within its design limits. Once the valve is set, the reduced pressure will be maintained despite the changes in the supply pressure and system load variations.
Why Do You Need a Pressure Reducing Valve?
Pressure-reducing values can protect your pipes and keep your plumbing fittings from bursting.
A pressure-reducing valve protects your pipe and your plumbing fitting from bursting due to high water pressure.
High water pressure can put stress on your pipes, causing them to break or damage the plumbing fitting leading to leaks.
It can help you conserve water and save money on utility bills
Water pressure-reducing valves save water, as less pressure it gives, it reduces wastewater treatment load and further protects the environment. It also helps in saving energy!
When water is flowing at a lower pressure, it means less energy is needed to be used to heat water. Ultimately, it can also help you save money on plumbing maintenance since it reduces the issues with your plumbing system caused by the high pressure of water.
It extends the lifespan of your fixtures and appliances
Every plumbing-related fixture and appliance in your home was made to handle water pressure of typically between 50-80 psi. But, your municipal water line could be pumping water to your home as high as 150 psi!
This difference means that a high level of stress is put on your plumbing system. Eventually leading to frequent repairs and costly replacement of parts. Your fixtures will last longer if your home maintains appropriate water pressure.
How Much Does Pressure Reducing Valve Cost?
There are different styles of water pressure-reducing valves and various installation charges throughout the country. But mostly, pressure-reducing valves start at around $50. Having a new pressure-reducing valve installed by a licensed plumber will seemingly set you back around $350-$500.
If you are more of a do-it-yourself homeowner, you can buy one and install it yourself. It often requires cutting out a section of your main water line and joining on the valve.
How long will a Water Pressure Reducing Valve last?
Water Pressure Reducing Valves have been labeled as a “life-of-mortgage” product because a malfunctioning water pressure-reducing valve is not replaced but simply cleaned or repaired by an inexpensive service kit.
Install a pressure-reducing valve in Burlingame and San Mateo with Caccia Plumbing!
Have More Questions About Your Plumbing? Give Us a Call!
Having normal water pressure is the code to maintain healthy plumbing in your home. If left unchecked, high water pressure will wear out just about everything that comes into contact with your plumbing system.
Maintaining your home’s water pressure and having a working pressure-reducing valve will help you save money over time. Spending a few hundred dollars today can spare you thousands in the future.
If you think that a water pressure-reducing valve could benefit your plumbing system, contact Caccia Plumbing today. Our skilled plumbers can properly size and fit a valve for your home to give an outstanding performance that preserves and protects your plumbing system.