Getting Started on a Pressure Reducing Valve: Quick Guide

It is essential to ensure that your home's water pressure is set at the correct levels to avoid costly plumbing repairs. A pressure reducing valve (PRV) is a device designed to maintain a relatively constant water pressure on your home's plumbing systems. In Austin, Texas, 78726 property owners regularly rely on the expertise of Abacus Residential & Commercial Plumbers to manage their water pressure issues. Through comprehensive plumbing services, Abacus is dedicated to delivering the highest customer satisfaction in the residential industry.

This guide provides a step-by-step breakdown of what to expect when installing a pressure reducing valve in your home, while ensuring that your plumbing systems are up to the highest standards.

1. Identify the Water Pressure

Before you can install a PRV system, it is important to first identify the water pressure in your home. Generally, the optimum water pressure for a residential system is between 50 and 80 psi (pounds per square inch). In high-pressure settings, greater than 80 psi, a PRV is necessary to reduce the pressure and prevent your piping systems from freezing or bursting due to the additional stress.

2. Select the Valve Type

PRV systems come in a variety of types. The most common is the gate valve, a manually operated valve that most resembles the familiar wheel-shaped valve, making it the easiest to install. This type of valve is available in both bronze or brass for maximum durability. There are also diaphragm type PRVs, which usually require a professional plumber for installation as they are more complex.

3. Inspect the Piping System

Prior to the actual installation, it is important to perform a thorough visual inspection of your existing piping system. A professional plumber from Abacus will be able to inspect your piping system to identify any signs of leaking or corrosion that may need to be repaired before installing the PRV.

4. Install the PRV

When the PRV installation begins, the plumber will attach two piping connections to the PRV system. Once these are securely attached, the PRV will be opened and the system pressure will be alleviated. When the pressure has been decreased, the plumber will then be able to adjust the pressure reducing valve until it is set to the ideal water pressure. In addition, the plumber will install a pressure gauge onto the PRV system to ensure that it is set correctly.

5. Test the System

At this point, the plumber will perform pressure tests to ensure that the PRV system is correctly calibrated. Once these tests are complete, the system is ready to be put into use.

6. Monitor the System

Lastly, it's important to regularly monitor your PRV system's performance. Pressure readings should be checked every few months to ensure that the system is delivering the necessary pressure. Periodic inspections by our licensed plumbers can also help to identify any issues with the PRV system.

By following this guide and entrusting Abacus Residential & Commercial Plumbers for your PRV installation needs, your home's water pressure will be adjusted to the correct levels, signaling you peace of mind with a job done right.

Pressure Reducing Valve

Plumbing

Abacus Residential & Commercial Plumbers