Do I Need a Pressure Reducing Valve?
Most of us prefer high water pressure in the shower or at the kitchen sink for scrubbing pots and pans. But despite your shower feeling best when it is warm and massaging your shoulders, there are many reasons to install a pressure reducing valve (PRV). We examine those reasons, below.
High Water Pressure Damages Your Appliances
High water pressure in your home is any level over the ideal 50 pounds per square inch (PSI). Greater pressure than this puts unnecessary stress on your appliances, causing them to break down earlier than they typically would. High PSI also reduces dishwasher, water softener, purifier, washer and water heater efficiency. None of these appliances will last as long as they should, if the water pressure is too high. If you have concerns about excessive wear and tear on your appliances, consider installing pressure reducing valves.
Excess Pressure Stresses Your Fixtures
Besides appliances, excessively high water pressure also damages your fixtures. Particularly vulnerable to intense water streams are your faucets and showerheads. They wear out more quickly when they have to fight intensity each time you turn the water on. But with a pressure reducing valve, you can preserve the longevity of your fixtures and reduce your utility bill, at the same time.
Water Main Changes Can Increase Your Household Pressure
Did you know that your city sometimes changes your neighborhood’s water main? When they do this, it can create a major change in water pressure. Some households can even expect to double their PSI from one such shift. This creates a sudden surge in pressure that can damage your appliances and fixtures. But with a pressure reducing valve, you maintain control of the water pressure in your home despite what the city does to the system.
Besides putting your appliances and fixtures under stress, one of these city-based changes can strain your home’s water lines. It can even cause some lines, like your old washing machine hose, burst. With a pressure reducing valve in place, you can sleep better at night.
Not Having a PRV Can Lead to Leaking Pipes
Having high water pressure can strain all parts of your household plumbing, not just your appliances and fixtures. The intense pressure loosens pipe joints, creates pinhole leaks, leads to mold growth and increases your risk of water damage. Unfortunately, these leaks often occur where you cannot see them. Having a leak in your ceiling, wall, flooring or underground can mask damage until the area rots away or floods. Having a pressure reducing valve provides greater peace of mind, protecting your pipes and helping water stay where it belongs.
High Water Pressure Can Make Your Toilet Run
If your toilet does not stop running on its own between flushes or even flushes on its own, it may be a side effect of high water pressure. Intense pressure quickly wears out the toilet fill valve, leaving the water to not stop running from the tank to the bowl. A pressure reducing valve can maintain the pressure of water flowing into your toilet, protecting its fragile parts and preventing surges in your water bill.
Do I Need a Pressure Reducing Valve?
If you believe water pressure has been too high in your home, you should call Leak Locators Myrtle Beach to check the integrity of your water pipes. As part of their visit, your leak location professionals can advise whether you need a pressure reducing valve. Remember, it is best to find leaks before you see mold, damaged surfaces or standing water. Leak Locators will check all areas of your home and outdoor property for signs of these insidious leaks using the most advanced technologies. Call Leak Locators Myrtle Beach for scheduling today at (843)655-5375.