Reduce High Water Pressure With a PRV

When you open a faucet, flush a toilet, or fill a washing machine in your North Carolina home, you expect water to flow with just the right amount of pressure.

There is nothing more frustrating than feeling mere droplets on your soaped up skin when you turn on the shower. Equally annoying is a showerhead that gushes like a fire hose. 

In the first shower scenario, weak water flow is the result of low pressure, which can be caused by a variety of issues, including a plumbing leak, a water main break or excessive water use in your Winston-Salem, NC neighborhood.

In the second shower scenario, strong water flow is caused by high pressure, which can produce big problems in your plumbing system. High water pressure can damage pipes, joints, and appliances, such as your water heater. It also wastes water as it gushes from your faucets, causing higher water bills.

Instead of sending money down the drain, reach out to our trained professionals at Sutton Brothers. We have more than 20 years of experience in heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC), as well as plumbing.

We have a fix for the high pressure in your plumbing. It is called a pressure-reducing valve (PRV).  

What Does a PRV Do?

This device, which is installed near your water meter or water shut-off valve, restricts the flow of the water coming from the main water line into your Winston-Salem, NC home, effectively reducing the high pressure before the water is distributed to faucets and appliances. If water pressure from the main line drops too low, the valve can adjust the flow to increase pressure.  

The key is to keep the water pressure below 80 pounds per square inch (psi). An acceptable range is from approximately 40 to 80 psi.

Test Your Water Pressure

You can test the water pressure in your home with a simple tool—a water pressure gauge—available at most hardware stores. If you have a PRV installed on your plumbing system, it is a good idea to test the water pressure occasionally to be sure the valve is working correctly. 

Sutton Brothers can simplify the process for you. Our highly trained professionals would be happy to check the water pressure in your Winston-Salem, NC home and install a PRV if it is needed. You can be assured that we always offer an honest diagnosis of the HVAC and plumbing systems we assess. We maintain high standards and are proud of our workmanship.

Water, Water, Everywhere

According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), “the average American family uses more than 300 gallons of water per day at home.” Approximately 70 percent is from indoor use. Toilets and showers account for the lion’s share of water use, followed by faucets, washing machines, and leaks. 

Reducing water pressure below 80 psi with the help of a PRV means less water waste. The amount you conserve can be significant, even saving money on your water bill.

Call Us for a Solution to Your Plumbing Problem

Our experienced plumbers at Sutton Brothers are knowledgeable about all plumbing issues, and are trained in installation, replacement, repair, and maintenance. Let us reduce the water pressure in your Winston-Salem, NC, home with a PRV. We want to help you keep your HVAC systems and plumbing in top shape. Call us at 336-390-3902 or request service online.