View Full Version : Replacing a PRV
el dawg
Oct 11, 2007, 06:37 AM
My PRV valve is bad, the pressure is at 75 and I need to reduce it to 25psi. It looks like an easy job to replace it. Close the main water valve, drain the water and install the new one. Has anyone done this before is there anything special I need to know or watch out for?
Thank you
Ron
speedball1
Oct 11, 2007, 07:32 AM
My PRV valve is bad, the pressure is at 75 and I need to reduce it to 25psi. It looks like an easy job to replace it. Close the main water valve, drain the water and install the new one. Has anyone done this before is there anything special I need to know or watch out for?
Thank you
Ron
For openers the average house pressure's 45 PSI not 25 PSI. What type of connections do you have between the supply and the present PRV. Can a new PRV be installed without adding a union or must one be cut in? What material's the supply pipe coming into the house? Copper, plastic or galvanized? Back to you, Tom
el dawg
Oct 11, 2007, 07:48 AM
Heh Tom.. thanks for the reply... A plumber in the area had told me that the house pressure should be 25 psi, as I stated mine is at 75psi, and when adjusting it... it does not drop the pressure that is why the plumber said to replace it. Plus it hummes when I run water in the house.. The plumber quoted me $425 to replace it. They have a very similar model at HD for $25 dollars. I have 3/4 inch galvanized pipe coming into the house, with a shut off valve and then the PRV. It looks simple to replace I just am too cheap to pay $425 when the unit cost $25 at HD to buy...
Should I give it a try? Any advise?
Ron
speedball1
Oct 11, 2007, 08:02 AM
Hey Ron,
TO save over 4 bills I sure would go for it!
.A plumber in the area had told me that the house pressure should be 25 psi,
Your plumber was wrong. Look at the next water tower that you pass. It's 100 feet tall for a reason. The reason being is that when the water reaches the main in the ground the PSI is about 45. Booster pumps in the system maintain that pressure throughout the entire system. This is the norm for most citys unless more pressure's needed in the mains to reach outlaying areas. Let me know if you need assistance. Tom
el dawg
Oct 11, 2007, 08:11 AM
Thanks for the reply tom... I agree for 4 bills I will try it...
If I get into trouble I will call...
Thanks again..
Ron
labman
Oct 11, 2007, 09:25 AM
Yeah, listen to Tom. DIY tip. If you don't have a union, measure carefully between the PVR and the next fitting. The big box stores and hardwares can make up a length of pipe with a union in it. Then just whack the old pipe in 2 and put the new one in its place.