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Install a Pressure Reducing Valve (PRV) — Adjust or Replace the Pressure Reducing Valve (PRV)

Beginner3 hours

Part of project

Boost Low Water Pressure: A DIY Guide to Higher Home Water Flow · Step 2 of 3

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In this video

As a last resort, if your mains water pressure is extremely high (e.g., 5 or 6 bar) and other methods haven't worked, you may need to install a Water Pressure Reducing Valve (PRV). This device is plumbed into your main water line, usually after the stopcock, and allows you to manually set the downstream pressure to a desired level, typically around 3 bar. This requires cutting the main pipe and fitting the valve, which is a more advanced plumbing task.

Goal: Install a PRV to permanently control high water pressure.

  • This is an advanced job that involves cutting your main water pipe. Proceed with caution or hire a professional.

Used in this video

  • Pipe Cutter (Cutter Type: Pipe cutter) — Cutting the main water pipe to install the valve.
  • Pipe Wrenches (Tool Type: Pipe wrench) — Tightening the compression fittings on the PRV.
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FAQs

What's the most critical first step before starting this project, and what safety precautions should I take?

The most critical first step is to locate and fully open your main water shutoff valve, as a partially closed valve is a common cause of low pressure. Before working on the PRV, know how to shut off your home's main water supply and have towels ready for potential leaks to prevent water damage.

What specific tools are essential for this project, and is the listed Wilkins PRV the only option?

You'll primarily need pliers and a multi-head screwdriver for cleaning aerators and adjusting/replacing the PRV. While a Wilkins 1 in. PRV is listed as an example material, you must verify the size and type compatible with your home's existing plumbing before purchasing a replacement.

I've cleaned all my showerheads and faucet aerators, but my water pressure is still low. What should I investigate next?

If cleaning aerators didn't resolve the issue, the next step is to focus on your home's Pressure Reducing Valve (PRV). First, reconfirm your main water shutoff valve is completely open. If the problem persists, your PRV might be faulty or set too low, requiring adjustment or replacement.

How can I safely and effectively adjust my home's Pressure Reducing Valve (PRV) without causing damage?

Locate the adjustment screw on your PRV (often on the bell-shaped top). Turn it clockwise slowly, making small adjustments like a quarter turn at a time, to increase pressure. Test the water pressure after each adjustment, avoiding overtightening, as excessive pressure can damage your plumbing fixtures and pipes.

Transcript
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okay? Just follow my video and it's on YouTube. Okay, and last thing, if at the end of the world you just can't seem to cure it, the pressure is still too great. And I've come across this one. You could fit a pressure reducing valve. Now I'm going to take you through the back. I'm just going to show you what one is a light because I've knocked one at one ebay just to show you what they're like. So you know what they are. And there's one there. And as you can see, it's got a little valve on there. And this valve gives you the bar of pressure that you can reduce this down to. Okay, so you can bring it down to normally mains. Pressures is free bar, two bar, somewhere between two and three bar. If you've got all the pressures up somewhere about five or six, it's always going to make up banging. And you never get quite going to cure it. So this is your answer. Now, look, they're not too bad. A 17 pound 20 ony. But I've seen them cheaper again still. So I have a look around. And if it comes at worst, just cut your water mains under the sink. Above your stopcock and stick this thing in and cut the pressure down. And again, we'll cure all your problems for not a lot of money, not for a hassle you get in water pressure, you know, problems. So, okay, that I think about covers it all. So not too bad a problem. If you've got any more problems

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