Did you know that the water coming into your home is regulated? Now for many of us, that fact might be a no-brainer; but for others, they have no clue. Your water pressure regulator controls the water that reaches your faucets and showers. The water pressure, whether too high or too low, can create problems for any home. A typical water pressure regulator gets set to between 45 – 65 pounds per square inch (psi). When the regulator is ready for installation, it’s generally preset to 50 psi and should never exceed 80 psi.
Your Water Pressure Regulator Is The Law
Water pressure tends to vary according to location and demand in different areas of the City. In accordance with the California Plumbing Code, if the pressure in your area exceeds 80 psi, you must have a water pressure regulator installed in your home. It’s the homeowner’s responsibility to install the regulator on their premises. According to the California Plumbing Code, “Water pressure at the point of use must be between 15 and 80 psi. A pressure regulator is mandated when the pressure is greater than 80 psi.” The normal indoor water pressure is between 45 and 65 psi.
How To Check Your Water Pressure
It’s always a good idea to check your home’s water pressure at least twice a year as part of your plumbing maintenance checklist. Water pressure testing is fast and easy, and all that is required is a simple, low-cost pressure gauge. Some homes are known to have dedicated gauges installed somewhere along the waterline, allowing homeowners to quickly and easily check the water pressure with a glance. However, performing a routine test with a basic water pressure gauge is quite simple, even if you do not have a permanent gauge. Your water pressure tester will cost just under ten dollars and is a very handy tool to have around the house. You can check your pressure by attaching the tester to the closest spigot to the regulator and tour on the water as far as it will turn. You’ll immediately get a reading.
Your Water Pressure Regulator Will Provide A Safe PSI
As some might think, high water pressure is a luxury, not so. High water pressure:
- Can induce pipe leaks
- Cause your toilet to run
- Create noisy pipes
- It could wreak havoc on your appliances, such as your dishwasher, washing machine, and water heater.
Your water pressure valve can bring your water pressure down to a safe level. The regulator usually gets located where the water is supplied to the home. Your water shut-off valve is just after the regulator, making it easy to replace. A spring-loaded diaphragm inside the regulator causes the water to restrict and contract by adjusting the screw at the top of the water pressure of the valve, you can adjust it.
High Water Pressure Can Put A Strain On Your Plumbing
Like all appliances, fixtures, and even pipes, water pressure regulators will eventually break down over time. The life expectancy of your regulator is 10 to 15 years, but plumbing professionals suggest changing it once every eight years. The most common results of a bad water regulator are low or high water pressure. Running a pressure test can determine if your water pressure is too high or low. Too much water pressure can strain our plumbing, while low water pressure will cause our faucets and showers to underperform.
Can A Do-It-Yourself’er Change A Water Pressure Regulator?
The most asked question is, “Can a do-it-yourself’er install a water pressure regulator?” The answer is yes, but it is not advisable. When a customer asks if they can do a plumbing job themselves, we have six evaluators:
- Do you have the time?
- Do you have the tools?
- Is it safe for you and your family?
- Do you have the experience?
- Will you put your home at risk with a more significant problem?
- Your work will not come with a GUARANTEE!
Unlike a clearing, a small drain, or even installing a bathroom faucet, replacing a water pressure regulator should be completed by a plumbing professional. Big B’s Plumbing is an A+ rated plumbing company by the Better Business Bureau. Our contractor’s license is #986152. We’re licensed, insured, and bonded.
