- Household appliances such as dishwashers, washing machines and sinks require adequate water pressure to work properly. If water pressure is too high, faucets will leak. If water pressure is too low, showers and other appliances used for cleaning won't have enough force to do the job. Water pressure regulators are devices placed on a home's plumbing to help reduce or increase the amount of water pressure from the main water source.
- The measurement for water pressure is pounds per square inch, or psi. The typical household water system is designed for 40 to 70 psi. Water received from the municipal water source is often too high for household appliances and may be subject to increases in pressure. Water pressure regulators can help households whose water pressure exceeds the recommended psi, in order to prevent damage and wear and tear to appliances from the excessive water force.The typical water pressure regulator is set at 50 to 60 psi.
- For the household water supply, a water pressure regulator is a spring loaded valve installed on the main water valve. Regulators that have been recently installed are typically on the house side of the main water valve, while older installations may have the regulator on the street side of the valve. Water pressure regulators can be adjusted by the homeowner, but most regulators will have pre-set manufacturer settings and will not need any adjustments. If unsure of proper settings or repair procedures, homeowners should consider consulting an experienced plumber prior to making changes.
- The compression placed on the regulator spring determines the water pressure provided through the regulator. In order to adjust the regulator, the homeowner uses the screw or knob located on the regulator. By turning this knob, a homeowner can manually increase or decrease the compression of the spring.
