Pressure Reducing Valves (PRVs) are a type of valve installed in the plumbing of residential homes and commercial buildings to regulate water pressure. The purpose of a PRV is to reduce incoming water pressure from the public water mains to a pressure that is safe for a customer’s plumbing system. The PRV provides water pressure consistency and is also a water conservation tool.

Mallory Valley must maintain higher levels of pressure in the public water mains in order to deliver water to all parts of the District. In addition, the District’s water distribution system is gravity fed. Therefore, pressure can vary greatly from one area of the District to another. The District cannot regulate or guarantee water pressure on the customer’s side of the meter.

Why do I need a pressure reducing valve? The Uniform Plumbing Code (cited above) requires a pressure reducing valve on all plumbing systems exceeding 80 psi. Additionally, irrigation systems may require a reducing valve if pressures exceed 70 psi. This requirement will prevent damage of the piping system due to excessive pressures.