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Pressure reducing valves (PRVs) regulate the downstream pressure of water.
Typically, water pressure complaints revolve around low water pressure, so it may be confusing why you would want or need a pressure reducing valve. [Note: If you rely on well water, you can regulate the water pressure directly on your well pump and do not need a pressure reducing valve.]
You’ve likely heard the phrase “like drinking from a firehose.” It’s a vivid image and quite apt when talking about water pressure. Municipal water mains typically provide water to your commercial building or home under high pressure. How high? Typical water mains supply water at pressures higher than 80 psi, and some clock in at 150 psi or more.
That water pressure must be high to keep the water moving quickly over great distances. Water pressure must be maintained at a high enough pressure to over-compensate friction losses and elevation changes to reach every home or building with adequate pressure. In mountainous or even hilly areas, the pressure in valleys can reach very high levels which could reach 200 or 300 psi.
The Benefits of a Water Pressure Reducing Valve
If you were to let that high-pressure water come directly into your plumbing network, you would have a lot of expensive problems. Reducing the water pressure minimizes these issues and has several cost-saving benefits:
- Lowers Water Consumption: By reducing the water pressure with a water pressure reducing valve, you can save thousands of gallons of water a year, reducing your water bill.
- Extends the Life of Fixtures and Appliances: A water pressure reducing valve eliminates excessive strain on the parts of your appliances and fixtures that deliver water.
- Extends the Life of Plumbing Piping: High water pressure can create tiny cracks and leaks that may eventually result in mold, pipe and valve failures. Not only will you have to replace those damaged pipes, but you’ll also likely be spending significant money to fix damaged floors and drywall, replace furniture and likely require mold remediation.
- Increases User Comfort: A water pressure reducing valve ensures the water comes out of your fixtures at a reasonable and comfortable rate. You wouldn’t want to drink from a firehose, nor do you want to shower under one or wash your dishes with one.
What Is the Ideal Water Pressure?
Plumbers seem to have different recommendations, from as low as 25 psi to a maximum of 75 psi. But many say the ideal setting is 50 psi. This will give you the pressure you want while avoiding potential disasters. MGI ConTrols® PRV valves are factory set at 50 psi and can be adjusted from 10-75 psi.
Commercial systems are much more complex than your average home. You must still reduce the pressure of water coming into the building, but you also need the internal building flow to be high enough to make its way to the farthest reaches. In these situations, you need a mix of water pressure reducing and regulating valves, backflow preventers, and tempering products.
About MGI ConTrols Valves
MGI ConTrols valves are designed for the most challenging demands of all commercial, multi-family residential and industrial facilities. You can learn more about all MGI ConTrols products here. If you have questions, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us—someone will be on hand to help you. You can also reach out directly to your local rep.