Frequently Asked Questions About Pressure Reducing Valves

With the recent COVID-19 outbreak, Austin, Texas, and the surrounding 78728 zip code have seen an influx of plumbing issues, especially those involving pressure reducing valves (PRVs). Owning and maintaining a home is not easy and adding PRV maintenance to the mix can seem daunting. If you're a homeowner in Austin searching for help with a PRV issue, Abacus Plumbing & Air has the expertise to get the job done right and quickly. Below, we cover some of the most commonly asked questions about PRVs to help Austin homeowners better understand the issue they're facing.

What Is a Pressure Reducing Valve?

A pressure reducing valve is a plumbing device designed to regulate and reduce the amount of pressure in a residential water line. PRVs are usually installed at the point where municipal water enters the home. They are used to regulate the internal water pressure and reduce it to safer levels to prevent the line from bursting due to excessive water pressure.

Do I Need a Pressure Reducing Valve?

If you live in an area with high water pressure, the answer is yes. High water pressure can cause pipes to burst and create costly home repairs. A PRV prevents this from happening by regulating the pressure and reducing it to safer levels.

How Does a Pressure Reducing Valve Work?

A PRV is designed to reduce the incoming water pressure to a safe level that is predetermined by the homeowner. The valve is usually set to around 65 to 75 psi (pounds per square inch). The incoming water pressure is measured by the valve, then controlled and regulated using a diaphragm that acts as a pressure-sensitive gland. When the pressure rises, the diaphragm adjusts itself to reduce the pressure to the predetermined level.

How Do I Know If I Need a Pressure Reducing Valve?

If your home has high water pressure, your home is in serious danger of experiencing a plumbing disaster. If you notice any of the following signs, you should contact a professional to get your PRV inspected and, if necessary, replaced:

•Loud banging noises coming from the pipes

•A sudden increase in water bills

•Frequent leaks in the pipes

•High water pressure on an outside faucet

What Are the Benefits of a Pressure Reducing Valve?

There are numerous benefits to having a pressure reducing valve installed in your home:

•Protection against plumbing disasters—A PRV helps protect your home against the risk of pressure-induced plumbing disasters.

•Convenience—PRVs help make your life simpler by regulating the water pressure in your home.

•Cost savings—With a PRV, your water bills should be lower which saves you money.

•Increased water pressure—The lower pressure ensures a steady flow of water to all the fixtures in your home.

How Do I Install a Pressure Reducing Valve?

Installing a PRV is a time-consuming and complex process that requires knowledge of plumbing lines and experience in installing valves. It is important to hire a professional plumber to do the job right. The plumber will assess the existing pipelines and install the PRV. They will also adjust the pressure setting to the desired level.

How Do I Maintain a Pressure Reducing Valve?

The maintenance of a PRV is relatively easy and involves cleaning, making sure the water is clean, and testing or adjusting the pressure level. Every six months, you should check the condition of the valve, the water line connections, and the water pressure level. In addition, if you suspect that your PRV has a failure, contact a professional plumber as soon as possible.

Pressure Reducing Valve

PRV

Plumbing