What Is a PRV?
What Is a PRV?
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A PRV, or pressure regulating valve, is a plumbing valve that helps control the water pressure coming into your home.
Water pressure from the city or main water supply can sometimes be higher than what your home’s plumbing system should handle. The PRV helps reduce and regulate that pressure before water moves through your fixtures, appliances, and pipes.
Why a PRV Matters
Why a PRV Matters
Your home’s plumbing system works best when the water pressure is within a safe range.
If pressure is too high, it can put extra stress on:
• Faucets
• Toilets
• Shower valves
• Supply lines
• Washing machine hoses
• Dishwasher connections
• Refrigerator ice maker lines
• Water heater parts
• Shutoff valves
• Pipe fittings
If the PRV is not working properly, you may notice pressure problems throughout the home.
Signs a PRV May Need Attention
Signs a PRV May Need Attention
A PRV may need to be checked if you notice:
• High water pressure
• Low water pressure
• Pressure that changes throughout the day
• Pipes banging or knocking
• Toilets running or refilling randomly
• Faucets dripping
• Supply lines leaking
• Water heater concerns
• Pressure that suddenly changed
• A PRV that looks old, corroded, damaged, or leaking
Not every pressure problem is caused by the PRV, but it is an important part of the system to consider.
Where is the PRV Located?
Where is the PRV Located?
A PRV is often located near where the main water line enters the home. It may be near the water heater, in a garage, basement, crawl space, utility area, or near the main shutoff.
Not every home has the same setup, and some PRVs are easier to access than others.
Can a PRV Be Adjusted?
Can a PRV Be Adjusted?
Some PRVs can be adjusted, but that does not always mean adjustment is the right fix.
If a PRV is old, failing, leaking, or not regulating properly, adjusting it may not solve the problem. Pressure should be checked properly before making changes.
What You Can Check Before Calling
What You Can Check Before Calling
Before scheduling, it helps to notice:
• Is the pressure high, low, or changing?
• Is it affecting the whole home or only one fixture?
• Did the issue start suddenly?
• Do you hear banging pipes?
• Are toilets running or faucets dripping?
• Do you know where the PRV is located?
• Does the PRV look corroded, wet, or damaged?
A photo of the PRV area can be helpful if you can safely access it.
When to Call a Plumber
When to Call a Plumber
Call a plumber if your pressure is too high, too low, changing, noisy, or if you suspect the PRV may be leaking, damaged, or not working properly.
Shanks Onsite Services can check your water pressure, look at the PRV, and help you understand the next right step.
Call or text 470-531-3956 with a photo or short video.
Local West Georgia Plumbing • Licensed Master Plumber • Family-owned
Shanks is on it.
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