Water Pressure Regulators: What They Are and How They Work

Water pressure regulators are an important component of many plumbing systems. They help control and stabilize water pressure to prevent damage to plumbing fixtures, appliances, and supply lines. This article provides an in-depth look at what water pressure regulators are, why they are needed, how they work, the different types available, and how to size, install, and maintain them properly.

What is a Water Pressure Regulator?

A water pressure regulator is a device installed on the main water supply line entering a home or building to reduce and control the downstream pressure. The regulator maintains a set lower pressure than the fluctuating incoming water pressure. This protects plumbing systems and appliances from excessively high water pressure which can cause leaks, damage fixtures, and shorten the life of appliances.

The regulator works by using a diaphragm or piston mechanism to limit water flow. When pressure rises above the set point, the mechanism restricts flow so less water gets through, therefore lowering the pressure. When pressure drops, it opens up to allow more water flow and maintain the preset reduced pressure level.

Regulators are normally set to around 50-60 PSI (pounds per square inch) depending on local codes and standards. Typical incoming water pressure to a home can range from 30 up to 100 PSI or more. Fluctuations are common due to changes in demand. A regulator ensures the pressure is consistent despite changes in the input pressure.

Why are Water Pressure Regulators Important?

There are several important reasons why maintaining proper water pressure through regulators is critical:

Prevent leaks and pipe bursts – High pressure can rupture pipes and fittings. Regulators prevent spikes that can overwhelm systems.
Save water – Lower pressure reduces flow through fixtures and decreases water waste.
Protect appliances – Fluctuating high pressure damages and shortens the life of water heaters, washing machines and more.
Improve performance – Fixtures function best and have longer life at optimal stable pressures. Shower heads get better coverage.
Reduce noise – Lower pressure equates to less water hammer noise in pipes and valves.
Safety – Uncontrolled high pressure can unexpectedly blast out of fixtures and cause injury.

Most plumbing codes require pressure regulation. Even without codes, any home with municipal water pressure over 50 PSI should install regulators. The cost is minor compared to the benefits.

How Do Water Pressure Regulators Work?

Water pressure regulators work using a spring-loaded valve mechanism and diaphragm or piston design. The spring provides a preset force that is calibrated to keep the outgoing pressure at a set point. Here are the steps in how standard regulators function:

Water enters the supply inlet – The incoming higher and fluctuating water pressure enters the regulator’s inlet pipe.
Pressure forces the piston/diaphragm – The water pressure pushes against a rubber diaphragm or piston connected to a valve.
Spring provides counter force – The diaphragm/piston is calibrated by an adjustable spring to not open fully until a preset pressure is reached.
Valve limits water flow – As pressure rises and falls, the valve restricts and increases water flow to maintain the spring-loaded preset pressure.
Regulated water exits downstream – Water at the controlled lower outlet pressure flows downstream to the home’s plumbing system.
Adjustment changes spring tension – An adjustment screw can increase or decrease the spring tension to change the outlet pressure set point if needed.

This automatic action keeps the water pressure steady and controlled. The spring force can be adjusted to maintain different pressure settings as needed.

Types of Water Pressure Regulators

There are two main designs of water pressure regulators – diaphragm style and piston style:

Diaphragm Type

Uses flexible rubber diaphragm pressed against an orifice.
Diaphragm flexes in/out adjusting flow.
Common for residential use up to 200 PSI.
Lower cost but shorter lifespan than piston types.

Piston Type

Uses a piston moved by the pressure across a cylinder.
Piston position controls outlet flow.
Handles higher pressures up to 300 PSI.
Last longer but cost more than diaphragm.
Often used for commercial and industrial applications.

Within these two types are additional variations:

Direct acting – Most common design where full inlet pressure acts on the diaphragm/piston directly providing control.
Pilot operated – A small pilot pin controls a diaphragm that actuates the main valve. Allows very accurate regulation.
Dual ported – Has inlet and outlet ports on both sides diverting flow for reduced pressure drop.

Piston regulators in general maintain performance longer and allow greater flow compared to diaphragm types. Diaphragm regulators are adequate for typical residential use up to about 200 PSI.

Specialty Pressure Regulators

Beyond standard regulators, some additional specialty designs exist:

Pressure reducing valve (PRV) – A simpler spring-loaded valve without a diaphragm/piston. Less accurate regulation but lower cost.
Pressure relief valve – Opens to vent water if pressure exceeds a preset maximum. Used to prevent excessive pressure.
Pressure sustaining valve – Maintains a minimum preset pressure, opening up if pressure drops too low.
Pressure unloading valve – Combines a pressure relieving and sustaining valve in one unit.
Dual pressure regulators – Provide both reduced main pressure and a separate unregulated high pressure output. Used where some high pressure outputs are needed.
Water hammer arrestors – Installed near valves to absorb hydraulic shock and prevent banging noises in pipes.

How to Size a Water Pressure Regulator

Choosing the correct size regulator primarily depends on the water flow rate needed. Standard regulators come in different pipe sizes from 0.5″ to 2″ or more. Follow these steps:

Determine the needed flow rate in gallons per minute (GPM). Consider periods of peak demand.
Choose a regulator size one step larger than the water supply pipe, if possible. This reduces friction losses.
Match the required GPM rating to the regulator’s rated GPM capacity. Size up if flow is near max capacity.
Larger regulators can better handle pressure fluctuations but cost more.
Consult manufacturer sizing charts based on typical household fixture flow rates.

Oversizing the regulator is better than undersizing for optimal performance. Add up flows for all fixtures and appliances running simultaneously for proper sizing.

How to Install a Water Pressure Regulator

Proper installation is key to a regulator functioning reliably. Follow these best practices when installing a water pressure regulator:

Install on main water supply line upstream of all fixtures as one of the first items inside the home.
Position horizontally and upright to allow water to flow across the piston/diaphragm properly.
Allow enough straight pipe upstream and downstream of regulator for best performance.
Install a shutoff valve before the regulator inlet and also on outlet.
Anchor securely to wall or floor to prevent movement and strain.
Adjust outlet pressure setting to 50-60 PSI or according to codes.
Install a pressure gauge downstream to monitor regulated pressure.
Consider a strainer upstream to filter out debris.
Allow room for servicing and future regulator replacement if needed.

Hire a professional plumber for best results and to ensure conformance with local plumbing codes. Proper regulator installation is vital.

How to Maintain and Service a Pressure Regulator

Routine maintenance keeps water pressure regulators functioning optimally. Follow these tips:

Periodically check the outlet pressure gauge – Adjust as needed to maintain proper pressure.
Inspect for leaks around fittings or wet spots – This may indicate a failing diaphragm/seals.
Flush out strainer screens and filters – Prevent clogging and debris buildup.
Listen for abnormal noises – Clattering or chattering can mean worn internals.
Test response by opening and closing fixtures – Failure to stabilize pressure can indicate problems.
Drain some water from the bottom valve periodically – Clears out sediment deposits.
Lubricate internal parts with waterproof grease when servicing.
Have regulator professionally serviced every 3-5 years – Change diaphragm, seals, springs as preventive maintenance.

Catching small issues early on can prevent total regulator failure and expensive water damage. Routine maintenance improves longevity.

Signs It’s Time to Replace a Water Pressure Regulator

There are some signs that indicate when an aging water pressure regulator needs replacement:

Constant leaks – Water coming from the regulator likely means a broken diaphragm or damaged seals.
Failure to maintain stable pressure – Outlet pressure spikes up and down despite adjustment. Springs may be fatigued.
Water hammer noises – Banging pipes when valves turn on/off point to worn pressure regulation.
Excessive debris – Heavy sediment buildup that can’t be flushed out reduces performance over time.
Corroded internals – Regulator valves and springs corroded from minerals in water eventually fail.
Old age – Most regulators should be replaced after 10-15 years as a precaution.
Higher flow demands – A regulator that can no longer handle increased water usage needs upsizing.
Damage – External physical impacts or freezing can damage the regulator.

Replacement regulators cost $50-200 for typical residential models. This small investment avoids extensive water damage if an old regulator fails completely. Check regulators regularly and replace proactively when issues arise.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should the pressure be set to on a water pressure regulator?

Most regulators are set to maintain water pressure between 50 to 60 PSI. Local plumbing codes may dictate pressure limits. Within this range avoids problems with either too high or too low pressure.

Where should a water pressure regulator be installed?

Regulators should be installed on the main water supply line entering the home, before any fixtures or appliances branch off. The ideal location is directly after the home’s main shutoff valve.

Do I need a pressure regulator for well water?

Yes, pressure regulators are recommended anytime the water pressure from a well or municipal supply exceeds 50 PSI. Fluctuating pressure from wells makes regulators especially important.

What size regulator do I need?

Choose a regulator rated for the peak flow rate needed for simultaneous use of fixtures/appliances. Oversizing by one pipe size reduces friction losses. Consult sizing charts.

How do I adjust the pressure setting on a regulator?

There is usually an adjustment screw that compresses an internal spring to change the pressure set point. Turn clockwise to increase outlet pressure. Adjust in small increments checking a gauge.

What PSI should the water pressure be for a shower?

Ideally shower heads perform best around 45-50 PSI. Installing individual pressure compensating valves can further reduce shower pressure to a more comfortable 40 PSI if the whole home pressure is higher.

How can I tell if my water pressure regulator is bad?

Symptoms like constant leaking, inability to maintain steady pressure, water hammer noises, excessive debris or corrosion indicate wear and need for replacement. Replacement every 10-15 years is recommended.

Why does water pressure fluctuate even with a regulator?

Small fluctuations can still occur from changing demand on the water supply system. Large pressure swings indicate a problem with the regulator needing adjustment or service. Water hammer on valve opening/closing is also a sign of issue.

Conclusion

Properly installed and maintained water pressure regulators are a vital component in any plumbing system. They save water, prevent leaks, reduce noise, and protect fixtures and appliances from damage due to uncontrolled fluctuating pressure levels.

Checking regulators routinely and replacing them proactively every 10-15 years ensures they continue performing their important job. Periodic servicing coupled with a quality regulator sized for the home’s demands provides affordable assurance against very expensive plumbing failures.

Investing in the right regulator and maintaining it makes good sense. By understanding what they do and how they work, homeowners can be sure this key plumbing component is working optimally at all times. The small upfront cost is minor compared to repairing the havoc from failed supply lines, flooding, and damaged fixtures that can result from lack of proper water pressure regulation.