Water Pressure Reducing Valves

How They Work

Installed directly after the water meter in homes, commercial buildings, and manufacturing plants, a water pressure reducing valve automatically reduces the pressure from the water supply main to a lower, more sensible pressure.

There are two types of water pressure reducing valves-- direct acting and pilot operated-- which use globe or angle style bodies. Direct acting valves are the more popular water pressure reducing valves, consisting of globe-type bodies with a spring-loaded, heat-resistant diaphragm connected to the outlet of the valve that acts upon a spring. This spring holds a pre-set tension on the valve seat installed with a pressure equalizing mechanism for precise water pressure control.

Every Drop Counts

High water pressures waste water. Many municipalities today not only charge homeowners and businesses high rates for water consumption, but also for the disposal of wastewater. Here's how water pressure reducing valves can help:

• Water Savings: Twice as much water flows through a system at 150psi pressure than at 50psi. Much of this additional water is wasted and not needed for normal usage.
• Energy Savings: If less water flows through the system, less energy is needed to heat domestic hot water. Calculations show that pressure reducing valves can save as much as 30% on domestic water heating costs.
• Wastewater Savings: When the community's wastewater treatment load is reduced, cost benefits accrue to both the environment and your bottom line. Many municipalities prorate sewer usage fees based upon the water meter reading.