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However, this does not mean that they could be found elsewhere. Unprofessional plumbers or homeowners may install pressure regulators in other parts of the home.

A water pressure regulator also named a pressure-reducing valve (PRV), is a type of plumbing valve that regulates pressure as water passes through the valve.

Loosen the lock nut, then, then you can either tighten or loosen the top screw to adjust the water pressure. Tightening the screw (to the right) will decrease the overall water pressure. Loosening the screw (to the left) will increase the overall water pressure.

Backwater valve

Backflow preventers offer protection through their multiple failsafe features in case of backflow. One example is the double check valve assembly (DCVA) which has two check valves and an atmospheric vent for protection, with a backup valve in case of failure. The vent creates an air gap to prevent backflow from backpressure. If the vent becomes blocked, a relief valve opens to release pressure and prevent contaminated water from flowing back into the main supply. The DCVA's combination of check valves, vent, and relief valve provides a failsafe design to protect the main water supply. Other types of backflow preventers similarly offer multiple failsafe features.

To test your water pressure, you can use any pressure gauge that attaches to hose bibs or faucets. They can be found at your local hardware store or on amazon.

This valve is frequently installed right after the main water shut-off and is needed on homes with high or variable water pressure. Without one, high water pressure can wreak havoc by bursting pipes, damaging plumbing fixtures, or even damaging appliances over time.

There are different types of backflow preventers with varying mechanisms. The best backflow preventer for an application may depend on local regulations or specifics of the plumbing system.

Backflow is the reversal of a fluid's flow due to back pressure or back siphoning. If backflow occurs, it can cause issues for certain applications. For example, if contaminated water backflows into a clean water supply.

A backflow preventer’s function (Figure 2) is to stop water from flowing in the opposite direction. The only purpose of a backflow preventer is to stop contaminated water from flowing into a source of potable water. Backflow preventers are installed at cross-connection points, such as where municipal drinking water enters a residential or commercial building or where the water supply attaches to appliances like a washing machine or dishwasher. Check with the local regulations to understand exactly where backflow preventers are necessary in a plumbing system.

WattsBackflow preventer

If you notice water hammering, misting sprinklers, dripping faucets, or variable water pressure, it might be time to replace your water pressure regulator.

Adjusting the water pressure is fairly simple. First, go to your water pressure regulator and located the top screw and lock nut.

Check valves and backflow preventers are two different devices. Backflow preventers are specifically designed to prevent contaminated water from mixing with potable or municipal water sources.

Check valve

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As high water pressure enters, the spring and diaphragm make it more difficult for water to pass. Conversely, as lower water pressure enters the valve, water easily passes since the diaphragm and spring are under less pressure. Thus, the water pressure regulator can regulate water pressure and be adjusted through the external screw that controls spring tension.

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You will need a water pressure regulator if your water pressure reaches levels near 80psi. In fact, building code requires water pressure regulators if psi reaches 80.

A backwater valve stops sewage from flowing back into a building whereas a backflow preventer valve prevents contaminated water from mixing with drinking water.

A check valve cannot be regarded as a safe substitute for a backflow preventer, especially when safeguarding drinking water.

If you are new to plumbing, it is best to contact a licensed plumber to assist you with this project and make sure it is completed properly.

Like a backflow preventer, a check valve stops media from flowing through it in the reverse direction. Check valves, however, do not offer the degree of protection that backflow preventers do and therefore are not suitable for protecting drinking water sources. If foreign material enters the check valve, it may block it open. In this case, there is no failsafe; the check valve will leak. Also, when check valves close too quickly, they become vulnerable to water hammer, which will damage the valve. Despite this, check valves are applicable for many applications. Read our water check valve and hydraulic check valve articles to learn more about specific applications. To learn about these valves in general, read our check valve overview article.

Cities require high water pressure for fire hydrants and for water to work against gravity and reach the top levels in multi-story buildings.

While having similar functions, backflow preventers and check valves are distinctly different devices by application. A backflow preventer is necessary to prevent contaminated water from flowing into potable or municipal water sources. Check valves are also one way valves, but cannot offer the high level of protection that backflow preventers do. This article overviews the primary differences between backflow preventers and check valves and describes different types of backflow preventers.

A backwater valve is used to prevent sewage from flowing back into a building. A check valve stops media from flowing through it in the reverse direction. These two valves differ in their application.

Water pressure regulators or water reducing valves help to regulate pressure that enters your home. Too much pressure can damage your appliances, pipes, and fixtures.

As mentioned, they are typically found right after the main water shut-off. This is so high pressured water can be limited before reaching the rest of the homes plumbing system and causing damage.