A water pressure regulator valve reduces the water pressure coming from the main water line and into your house. It reduces the pressure to a safe level before the water itself reaches any plumbing fixtures inside of your home. Too much water pressure can cause leaking and even burst pipes, so the pressure regulator plays an important role in your home’s plumbing. If you're looking for water pressure regulator installation services in san dimas, Call the Alpine, Plumbing, Heating, and Air.
If you have one, the regulator is usually located where the main water line comes into the house. Usually directly after the main shut off valve. It’s placed in this strategic location so when work or placement is required, the water main can be easily shut off.
Inside the water pressure regulator there is an adjustable spring-loaded diaphragm. This reduces the pressure in the line within the valve body so that water coming into the valve is restricted and released at a regulated rate.
To determine if your regulator is faulty, you’ll first need to test the water pressure of the main water supply. You can buy a pressure gauge from any local hardware or home improvement store. Screw the pressure gauge onto any hose bib or washing machine bib and turn the water on to measure the pressure. If the pressure is between 40 and 60 psi consistently, then you’re considered to be in the safe zone and probably don’t need a regulator replacement.
You can also contact your local water company. Because they understand the placement and functionality of the mains within their system design, they can tell you if you may need a pressure regulator where you live. If you’re still unsure or can’t get a solid answer, simply consult with your local plumber. Any decent plumber will be able to quickly test the pressure and determine what’s right for your home – whether you need a replacement of an existing regulator, or a new installation.
Everything in your home requires maintenance, and most things eventually require replacement. Water pressure regulators are no exception. If you notice any type of water hammering, shaking or jerking pipes, rapidly fluctuating pressure, or any other inconsistencies in the system there’s a good chance that your regulator is not working properly. It could be due to improper installation, old age, or simple failure. It could also indicate a line break somewhere.
Test your water pressure at least once a year to determine whether or not it falls within acceptable levels. Remember, too much water pressure will add more work to the plumbing system, causing toilets to run, faucets to drip and a number of premature failures. In extreme cases, it can also burst pipes, fittings, or fixtures.
Installing a new regulator can be a difficult task because it requires adjustments to the main water line. In some cases it calls for reworking the main shutoff valve to allow room for the regulator. Call the professional plumbers at Alpine Plumbing, heating, and air to diagnose your water pressure regulator installation services in san dimas.