Picking the Right Pressure Reducing Valve in 78735, Austin - Texas

Maintaining, repairing and upgrading one's plumbing system is an often tedious task. Thankfully, Abacus Plumbing is here to assist property owners dealing with all kinds of plumbing issues, including (but not limited to) repair and installation of pressure reducing valves in Austin, Texas-based 78735 zip code.

Not all home maintenance projects are DIY jobs. Unless one is extensively experienced with plumbing systems, it is highly recommended to engage a reputable licensed plumbing service to clean, repair or install any new valves. Abacus is one of the top-rated plumbing services in the area and our company specializes in all plumbing-related jobs that home and business owners may need.

This article is specifically meant to introduce property owners to the pressure reducing valves and how they are used. It shall also cover the advantages associated with having one installed.

What are Pressure Reducing Valves?

Pressure reducing valves (as the name suggests) are valves designed to reduce and stabilize water pressure in a given system. They come in a variety of sizes and shapes and make. The most common ones are direct acting pressure reducing valves, pilot operated pressure reducing valves, solenoid operated pressure reducing valves, and motor- and hydraulic-operated.

Pressure reducing valves take in incoming pressure as input and provide a predictable and consistent downstream pressure as output. Pressure reducing valves are especially useful in systems with significant pressure drops.

How Do Pressure Reducing Valves Work?

Pressure reducing valves are mechanical components that function differently depending on the type. Direct acting pressure reducing valves are often constructed of two diaphragms which ensure smooth valve operation and are fitted with an actuator. Opening and closing of the valve is done by a mechanical mechanism which precisely ensures that the output pressure will not exceed the predetermined pressure set-point.

Pilot operated pressure reducing valves are often placed in systems that require very precise control over the downstream pressure within tight limits. They incorporate a pilot section and an actuator. This allows the valve to automatically react to both upstream and downstream pressure drops and adjust the valve accordingly. Solenoid operated PRVs are the most popular type as they employ electromagnetic energy to open and close the valve accurately and with minimal effort.

Finally, motor- and hydraulic-operated PRVs offer more control over the flow and are used in applications that require greater precision.

What are the Benefits of Installing a Pressure Reducing Valve?

The main benefit of having a pressure reducing valve installed in a system is that it can help prevent costly damages resulting from over-pressure. This is especially important when dealing with systems that require pressurized containers or tanks, as they can be particularly vulnerable to a major pressure increase.

Furthermore, PRVs can help spread pressure evenly throughout the system, thus reducing water hammering and other issues resulting from pressure overload and significant flow changes.

Finally, pressure reducing valves help protect expensive parts that may be prone to wear and tear due to an unexpected pressure spike.

How to Choose the Right Pressure Reducing Valve for Your Plumbing System?

When selecting a pressure reducing valve for your plumbing system, it is important to take into account the following factors:

Pressure Rating: Incoming and downstream pressures will need to be assessed before making a purchase. It is highly recommended to speak to an experienced plumbing professional who can better advise you on the most appropriate pressure reducing valve for your needs.

Flow Rate Requirements: Based on the application you're dealing with, the flow rate requirements should be considered when picking the right PRV. It is possible to install valves with adjustable flow rates that will allow for more precise control of the water pressure.

Materials: Most pressure reducing valves are constructed of brass, though stainless steel and other materials can also be used. It is important to make sure the valve you're looking at has the appropriate ratings for the given system.

Temperature: Given that pressure reducing valves can be exposed to a large range of temperatures, it is important to pick a valve that can operate within the system's temperature range.

In the end

Pressure reducing valves are a key component of any modern plumbing system. For Austin-based property owners, Abacus Plumbing can provide you with the assistance and expertise needed to pick the right valve for your system and ensure the installation is performed flawlessly.

Pressure Reducing Valves

Plumbing

Pressure Rating