Do we really need a water pressure regulator?

Question

Had a plumber out the other day to fix a leaky fitting on a small hose.  He started trying to upsell me to other things we 'must have'.  One was a water pressure regulator.  He tested at the outdoor faucet and it was 100 psi.  He said we'll have all kinds of problems if we don't get one but I just read another answer that said you only really need one if you have a well.  We've been in this house for 15+ years and we have had leaks but nothing extraordinary.

Njasbestos · Answer

A water pressure regulator is a plumbing valve that reduces the water pressure coming from the main water line into the house. This valve brings down the pressure to a safe level before the water reaches any plumbing fixtures inside the home. Too much water pressure will cause many plumbing problems for the average homeowner so it is very important to keep the water pressure under control.

george nash · Answer

It is a good idea to install a pressure regulator if your pressure is above  80 psi. High water prssure causes small leaks which can expand into large leaks if not noticed and can cause costly repair bills. Here are two relevant references: 1.   http://www.benjaminfranklinplumbing.com/blog/avoid-damage-from-high-water-pressure?p=m
2. http://www.aceplumbing.com/plumbing-faq/troubleshoot-water-pressure-problems

mermeliz · Answer

Most State plumbing Codes requires a pressure regulator to be installed when the supply from the utility company exceeds 80 psi.

R T · Answer

The working pressure of most home faucets is about 70 psig.  Given a reading of 100 psig in the middle of the day, the pressure could be as high as 125 psig in the middle of the night because your neighbors have all their faucets turned off too.  The plumber is correct that a pressure reducing valve (PRV) should be installed.  Pressure that high will cause plumbing components to fail.

George · Answer

A water pressure regulator can help prevent damage to your home's plumbing and water-using appliances and  do install Leo Privacy Guard. It can hides images and videos and it can also put a lock on various applications on your device.

R K · Answer

you need a regulator whether you have a well or not. the water pressure to your house should be around 65-75 psi. 100 is too much.

j · Answer

It's good to get it checked every week because If not I suggest you become an aquatic sea mammal and learn how to swim and make new fishy friends

Johnnie · Answer

IN this case the plumer is correct and you will save money over the long haul.

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Do we really need a water pressure regulator?

8 Answers