Best Water Pressure Reducing Valve: Top 5 for Safety in 2024

Last Updated on May 17, 2023

High water pressure from the city mains can rip out your home’s plumbing, appliances, and fixtures. Most homeowners don’t even realize they have high water pressure until they experience a plumbing issue. So how can you avoid the issues caused by too much water pressure?

To control the water pressure in your home and protect your plumbing, you need the best water pressure reducing valve. This valve does two things: It lowers the high incoming pressure of the city mains to provide a lower and more functional pressure for distribution in the house.

In choosing a water pressure-reducing valve, how can you avoid the common mistakes people make? With our top-listed valves, we will inform you what to look for.

Best Water Pressure Reducing Valve: Top 3 Special Choices

What Happens If Your Water Pressure is Too High?

Water pressure measures how forcefully water flows through your pipes and is measured in pounds per square inch or PSI. The average home has a water pressure between 40 and 60 PSI, which is adequate for most purposes. It can cause several problems with high water pressure.

One issue that can occur is damage to your plumbing. If water is flowing through your pipes with too much force, it can put undue strain on them and cause leaks. High water pressure can also cause noisy pipes and wear on appliances like dishwashers and washers.

Therefore, you must ensure your home’s water pressure is set right. You could install the best pressure regulator valve to help you with this.

Where Is the Water Pressure Reducing Valve Located?

Most houses that receive water from a municipal source do not have pressure-reducing valves installed. The city or water district controls the pressure for these homes, which is not adjustable.

If a house does use a pressure-reducing valve, it is typically located on the inlet pipe beyond the meter. This valve will look similar to a regular one, but it will have a dial gauge attached to it.

The regulator will combine the pump’s cycle-on and cycle-off relay settings for homes with private well water. This will typically be displayed on a small box next to the incoming water line. Homeowners can easily adjust the water pressure as needed by understanding where this valve is located.

What Are the Types of Water Pressure-Reducing Valves?

The two types of pressure-reducing valves are direct-acting and pilot-operated. 

Direct Acting

A direct-acting water pressure reducer is a globe-type valve that has a heat-resistant, spring-loaded diaphragm that is attached to the outlet. The diaphragm acts upon a spring, which opens or closes the valve in response to changes in water pressure.

When the water pressure increases, the diaphragm pushes against the spring, closing the valve and reducing the water flow. When the water pressure decreases, the diaphragm relaxes and allows the spring to open the valve, increasing the water flow.

Direct-acting valves are designed to maintain a constant outlet water pressure, regardless of fluctuations in water pressure. These valves are used in residential and commercial applications to protect plumbing fixtures and appliances from damage due to high water pressure.

Pilot Operated

A pilot-operated water pressure reducer is a type of valve that is used to regulate the water pressure in a plumbing system. The valve consists of two parts: the main valve and a pilot. Pilot valves measure the pressure at the outlet (downstream) and adjust the position of the main valve based on the water pressure.

The main valve controls the flow of water through the system. This type of valve is typically used in commercial and industrial applications where it is important to maintain stable water pressure.

Depending on your convenience, you can choose from the following options:

1. Watts Water Pressure Reducing Valve

The Watts water pressure reducing valve is an excellent choice for those looking for an easy-to-install and simple valve. This valve has a lead-free brass body and solder-inlet and solder-outlet connections, making it ideal for those looking for a high-quality and durable product.

It’s a breeze to clean this valve because it has an integral stainless-steel strainer, which ensures optimal performance. And the standard bypass feature on this valve allows water to return to the main when pressures get too high. This is a viable option for those with thermal expansion issues.

How Can This Product Help You?

This particular valve from Watts is designed for use in residential applications, and it can help to reduce water consumption by up to 30%. The LFN45BM1-DU-S can be especially helpful in areas with high water pressure, as it can help protect the plumbing system and save on energy costs.

After installation, the water pressure-reducing valve will regulate the pressure automatically. This is a great benefit, as it can help to keep the system running smoothly and efficiently without any manual adjustments.

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2. Zurn-Wilkins 1 In. Water Pressure Reducing Valve

If you’re looking for a quality water pressure-reducing valve, the Zurn-Wilkins 1 in. A water pressure reducing valve is a great option. This valve is made of stainless steel, so it’s durable and corrosion-resistant. It also has a brass exterior finish, which gives it a sleek appearance.

The outlet connection type is FNPT, making it easy to connect to your water line. And this valve is ideal for systems that need regular maintenance to remove sediment and debris.

The balance piston design ensures a smooth and responsive flow demand, while the integral by-pass prevents excessive system pressure.

How Can This Product Help You?

The Zurn 1-NR3XL valve is used in residential settings, such as single-family and multi-family homes, as well as public entrances. This valve helps to maintain pipes, faucets, and appliances by preventing debris buildup and reducing waste.

It can also help reduce the amount of time and labor needed for repairs and maintenance and the risk of flooding or property loss due to high water pressure.

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3. Bell And Gossett Pressure Reducing Valve for Water

The Bell and Gossett pressure reducing valve for water is a reliable and durable device that helps to keep your water pressure consistent. It is made from high-quality materials and features robust construction, allowing it to withstand even the most demanding applications.

It has a maximum temperature of 225 degrees Fahrenheit and a max pressure of 125 psi. So it can be used in various settings, whether you’re trying to reduce water pressure in your home or business.

How Can This Product Help You?

This valve helps to adjust the water pressure to a preset level, which can be helpful if you have too low flow pressure or if you are trying to conserve water. The Bell & Gossett valve is made of brass and is designed to reduce water pressure by 12 to 25 psi.

And it is easy to install and can be set up in minutes. This pressure can be adjusted to accommodate different needs and requirements. It is a wise choice for those who want a reliable and easy-to-use water pressure-reducing valve.

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The Other Types of Best Pressure Regulator Valves

If you need more than one valve or have a different application, other types of valves might be a better fit.

➤ Keenso 1/2 Inch Pressure Reducing Valve for Water

The Keenso 1/2 inch pressure reducing valve for water is a high-quality brass valve that is perfect for regulating water pressure. It is easy to use and install, and it can withstand high-pressure levels.

This valve also has an adjustable pressure reducer, making it suitable for various applications. It is made of brass and is thus durable and resistant to rust. Lastly, the Keensoir58ezwqvt5z has an easy-to-connect feature, ensuring you are satisfied with your purchase.

How Can This Product Help You?

Keenso DN15 water reducer valve can help to ensure that your home has consistent water pressure, no matter what time of day it is. This is important for appliances that rely on water pressure, such as dishwashers and washing machines.

This water pressure-reducing valve can also help to save you money on your energy bill by reducing water waste that is wasted. Plus, this product is easy to install and requires no special tools. Simply connect it to the water line, and you’re ready to go.

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➤ Thincol Adjustable Water Pressure Reducing Valve

The Thincol adjustable water pressure reducing valve is a great tool to have for anyone with a reverse osmosis water purifier. This valve allows you to adjust the outlet pressure, giving you a more stable water flow and avoiding any noise from the humidifier.

It’s also awesome for preventing tube explosions and floor soaking. Installation is simple, and it can be connected to any water purifier with a 1/4″ interface. So if you’re looking for a reliable and easy-to-use pressure-reducing valve, the Thincol is a suitable option.

How Can This Product Help You?

Installing this Thincol valve can help to reduce the water pressure by up to 507 PSI, making it a perfect solution for homes with extreme water pressure or for appliances that are not rated for high-pressure conditions.

The valve can be easily installed and used with all 1/4” interface water pipes, making it a versatile option for many households. Moreover, the Thincol valve can help prevent water damage by reducing the risk of tube explosions and leaks.

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These water pressure-reducing valves are great options to help regulate your home’s water pressure. Select the right valve for your needs, and follow the installation instructions carefully to avoid any potential problems.

Comparison Table of the Best Pressure Reducing Valve

Product	Material	Finish	Item Weight	Item Dimensions L x W x H
Watts	Stainless Steel, Lead	Stainless Steel	2.04 Pounds	5.63 x 2.44 x 7.38 Inches
Zurn	Stainless Steel	Brass	2.18 Pounds	‎4.94 x 2.5 x 6.25 Inches
Bell & Gossett	Brass	Brass	‎2.2 Pounds	3 x 1 x 5 Inches
Keenso	Brass	Brass	1 Pound	‎ 0.39 x 0.39 x 0.39 Inches
Thincol	Polypropylene	Metal	0.18 Pound	0.39 x 0.39 x 0.39 Inches

How to Choose the Top Water Pressure Reducing Valve?

You know how important it is to have a good water pressure-reducing valve if you’ve ever experienced water spraying out from under your bathroom sink or a weak stream of water from your shower head.

There are many types and brands, so how do you choose the right one? Here are a few things to keep in mind when making your selection:

1. Valve Finish

A water pressure-reducing valve (PRV)’s valve finish ensures accurate, reliable, and consistent water pressure reduction. Valve finish is determined by three factors: material compatibility, surface roughness, and dimensional tolerance.

• Material compatibility is important because it ensures that the PRV will not be corroded or damaged by the water it regulates.
• Surface roughness is important because it affects water to flow through the valve and can impact the accuracy of the pressure reduction.
• Dimensional tolerances are important because they ensure that the PRV will fit properly into the piping system and will not leak.

By considering all of these factors, you can be sure to select a PRV with the appropriate valve finish for your application.

2. Pressure Settings

If you install a PRV that does not have the correct pressure settings, you could damage your home’s plumbing system. There are three main factors that you need to take into account when choosing a PRV: the incoming water pressure, the desired output pressure, and the flow rate.

Incoming water pressure is the amount of pressure coming into your home from the main water line. This will be different for every home, so you will need to check with your local water utility to find out what the pressure is in your area.

The desired output pressure is the level that you want the PRV to reduce the incoming water pressure too. This will be determined by the needs of your home’s plumbing system.

Lastly, you need to know the flow rate, which is how much water you want to flow through the PRV each minute. Once you have all of this information, you can then choose a PRV with the correct pressure settings.

3. Adjustable Pressure

Manufacturer will have set the maximum adjusting pressure at the factory. This is the upper limit to which you can adjust the pressure. The minimum adjusting pressure is the lower limit of what you can adjust.

The difference between these two values is called the adjustment range. Most manufacturers publish the adjustment ranges for their products. When setting the adjustable pressure on your water pressure-reducing valve, you must stay within these limits.

If you need to adjust the valve beyond these limits, then you need to buy a new valve with a larger or smaller adjustment range. Something else to remember is that the actual outlet pressure may be different than what is shown on the gauge. This is due to factors such as line loss, leakage, and changes in atmospheric conditions.

So, there will always be inaccuracies when using a water pressure-reducing valve. Nevertheless, it is still a useful tool for controlling water pressure.

4. Rust Resistance

A valve not resistant to rust will quickly corrode, becoming less effective and eventually requiring replacement. There are a few ways to determine the rust resistance of a water pressure-reducing valve.

One is to look for valves that are made of corrosion-resistant materials such as stainless steel or brass. Another option is to look for valves coated with a rust-resistant finish. Finally, you can check the warranty information for a particular valve to see if it includes coverage for rust damage.

By taking the time to consider rust resistance, you can choose a water pressure-reducing valve that will provide years of reliable performance.

5. Easy Installation

There are two things you need to consider when you’re trying to determine how easy it is going to be to install a water pressure-reducing valve.

The first is the size of the valve. If you have a smaller valve, it will be easier to install because it will take up less space. The second thing you must consider is the type of threading the valve has. If the valve has standard threading, it’s going to be much easier to install than a valve that has non-standard threading.

So, when looking at water pressure-reducing valves, make sure you consider these two factors to determine how easy it will be to install the valve.

How Does Residential Water Pressure Regulators Valve Work?

In residential areas, they are typically installed where the main water line enters a home or building, and they can be adjusted to maintain the desired water pressure for the entire system.

Pressure regulators use an adjustable spring-loaded diaphragm to constrict and then release the water within the valve body. This allows the water to flow at a reduced pressure, which helps prevent damage caused by high water pressure.

And pressure regulators can help you reduce your water bills by reducing the amount of water wasted due to leakage.

How Does the RV Water Pressure Regulator Valve Work?

When you connect your RV to a city water supply, the water pressure will be much higher than what your RV’s plumbing system is designed for. This high water pressure could damage your pipes and fixtures.

It could also stress your water hose, causing it to leak or burst. You must install a water pressure regulator at the connection point to prevent this.

The regulator works by reducing the pressure in the water as it enters the RV. This ensures that your plumbing systems can handle the water flow and that your hose can withstand the pressure.

Most regulators have an adjusting screw that lets you control the amount of water pressure reduction. This lets you fine-tune the regulator to meet your needs.

If you’re not sure what size regulator you need, it’s best to err on the side of caution and go with a larger model. This will ensure that you don’t accidentally damage your RV’s plumbing system. It will also give you some leeway if you need to increase pressure reduction in the future.

How Do You Adjust the Water Pressure Gauge Valve?

Many people don’t realize that homes in the United States have access to clean running water and that this water pressure is regulated. This is adjusted by a water pressure gauge valve, and it’s important to know how to adjust this valve should the need ever arise.

The first thing you need to do is locate where your water pressure regulator valves are. In most cases, one screw and one nut will be located on the front of the unit. All you need to do is loosen the nut and adjust the screw until it reaches the desired pressure.

Once you have reached the desired pressure, tighten the screw again. Another important thing to remember is that it’s always wise to attach a pressure gauge to the line to monitor the pressure at all times.

One more consideration is that you will need to bleed off any built-up pressure as you make these adjustments. Should your regulator not respond to any adjusting, it’s possible that the diaphragm inside the unit has ruptured and will need replacing entirely.

How to Install a Water Heater Pressure Relief Valve?

Installing a water heater pressure relief valve is a relatively simple task that any homeowner can do to protect their home from potential water damage.

The first step is to find a suitable location for the drain, either a floor drain or an exterior location. Once the drain is in place, the next step is to locate the pressure relief valve on the water heater. This valve is typically located near the top of the tank on one side.

Once the valve is located, the next step is to purchase adapters for the valve and pipes so that a CPVC pipe can be run from the valve to the drain. After the pieces are cut and prepared, they can be assembled according to the manufacturer’s directions.

When to Replace the Water Heater Pressure Relief Valve?

As any homeowner knows, the water heater is an essential part of the home. It provides hot water for showers, laundry, and dishes. The water heater can also be a source of problems. One potential issue is a faulty pressure-relief valve.

Over time, the valve can become stuck or damaged. And it’s important to test the valve regularly and replace it every five years. Taking this simple precaution can help ensure that your water heater works properly and doesn’t cause any problems in your home.

How to Replace RV Hot Water Pressure Relief Valve?

If you have an RV with a hot water pressure relief valve that is leaking, you should replace it.

To replace the valve, first turn off the water to the RV. Then, remove the old valve by unscrewing it from the RV’s plumbing. Next, screw the new valve into place and turn the water back on. Test the new valve by pressing down on the lever to ensure it functions properly.

If the new valve leaks, you may need to adjust the water pressure in the RV. Read the instructions with your new valve for more information on how to do this. With a little effort, you can easily replace an RV’s hot water pressure relief valve yourself.

How Do I Check the Water Pressure in My House?

One way to test your water pressure is by purchasing a pressure gauge. Most gauges have a range of 0 to 200 psi. To get an accurate reading, make sure all other water-using appliances in your home are turned off. That way, you can get a baseline reading without outside factors influencing the results.

You generally want your plumbing to provide between 30 and 80 pounds per square inch. If your gauge reading falls outside that range, you might have to adjust your regulator.

This is a relatively simple process that most homeowners can do themselves. You can always call a plumber if you’re uncomfortable making this adjustment.

Why Is the Water Heater Pressure Relief Valve Leaking?

A water heater’s relief valve is designed to help release excess pressure and temperature from the tank. Some valves leak because they’re faulty. There are a few reasons why this might happen:

• If this valve is triggered, it will start to leak. This can be caused by either excessive pressure or temperature or by a faulty valve.
• The relief valve opens when the pressure or temperature in your tank gets too high. It can happen if your tank is overfull or if a blockage in the vent pipe prevents the pressure from releasing.
• If the valve itself is faulty, it may leak even at normal pressures and temperatures. It can be caused by corrosion or mineral deposits on the valve seat.

In any case, you should have your relief valve inspected and repaired by a qualified technician as soon as possible.

How Does a Water Pressure Reduction Valve Differ From a Pressure Limiting Valve?

Water pressure-reducing valves and pressure-limiting valves serve different purposes in a plumbing system.

A water pressure relief valve protects the system from excessive pressure by releasing pressurized water beyond the valve’s setting. On the other hand, a pressure-limiting valve is designed to limit the system’s pressure below its maximum.

While both valves are critical for protecting the plumbing system, the best water pressure reducing valve will have a higher flow capacity than the top pressure-limiting valve.

It’s because pressure relief valves are designed to release much water fast, whereas pressure limiting valves keep the pressure low and steady.

Check out our outlined reducing water pressure valve reviews if you’re not sure what you need. Make sure you get advice from a plumbing professional.