Can a New Pressure Reducing Valve Increase the Water Pressure in My Home?

Can a New Pressure Reducing Valve Increase the Water Pressure in My Home?

If you’ve been dealing with frustratingly low water pressure—whether it’s a weak shower, slow-filling sinks, or sputtering hose spigots—you’re not alone. Homeowners across Pittsburgh and the surrounding area often wonder: Can a new pressure reducing valve (PRV) actually increase the water pressure in our home?

At Revelation Plumbing, we hear this question all the time. Let’s break it down so you understand what a pressure reducing valve does, why it matters, and how replacing or adjusting it could dramatically improve your water pressure.

🔧 What Is a Pressure Reducing Valve (PRV)?

A pressure reducing valve is a device installed on your main water line that regulates the water pressure entering your home from the city supply. Without a PRV, your home's plumbing system could experience dangerously high pressure, leading to leaks, pipe bursts, and appliance damage.

Most homes in Pittsburgh—especially older ones—have a PRV, and over time, these valves can wear out, clog, or become misadjusted.

How A Pressure Reducing Valve Works

💡 So, Can Replacing a PRV Increase Water Pressure?

Yes, in many cases, replacing or adjusting your PRV can increase your home’s water pressure.

Here’s why:

• ✅ Old PRVs wear out: Over time, sediment buildup or mechanical wear can restrict water flow.

• ✅ Your valve may be set too low: Some PRVs are factory-set at 50 psi, but your home may comfortably handle 60–75 psi.

• ✅ Upgrading improves performance: New PRVs offer smoother adjustments, better durability, and more precise control over pressure.

✨ Pro Tip from Revelation Plumbing: We’ve helped countless homeowners in the Pittsburgh area increase their water pressure simply by installing a new, properly calibrated PRV.

⚠️ Signs You May Need a New Pressure Reducing Valve

Wondering if your PRV is the culprit behind your low water pressure? Look for these red flags:

• Weak water flow at multiple fixtures

• Noisy pipes or banging (water hammer)

• Fluctuating pressure throughout the day

• PRV is more than 10–15 years old

• You’ve never had it inspected or adjusted

  
  

📏 What Should Your Home Water Pressure Be?

In most homes, ideal water pressure ranges between 60–75 psi. Anything above 80 psi is too high and can cause damage. Anything below 40 psi feels weak and inefficient.

A licensed plumber can test your current pressure and determine if your PRV is set too low or is failing altogether.

🧰 How Revelation Plumbing Can Help

At Revelation Plumbing, we specialize in diagnosing and fixing low water pressure problems across Pittsburgh and the surrounding neighborhoods. Here’s what we do:

• ✅ Test your current water pressure

• ✅ Inspect and test your existing PRV

• ✅ Install a new PRV if needed

• ✅ Calibrate it to your home’s ideal pressure

• ✅ Ensure compliance with local codes

• ✅ Offer same-day service and free estimates

And yes—there’s no service fee when you work with us.

🚿 Will Higher Water Pressure Damage My Plumbing?

Only if it’s too high. That’s why it’s so important to have a professional set the pressure based on your specific plumbing system.

Too much pressure can:

• Shorten the lifespan of water heaters

• Cause premature leaks in older copper or PEX pipes

• Stress washing machine and dishwasher hoses

• Lead to slab leaks or joint failures

With a new PRV properly installed and set, you get optimal water pressure without risk.

🔍 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

🔧 Can I adjust the PRV myself?

It’s possible—but not recommended unless you’re a licensed plumber. Improper adjustment can lead to damage, void warranties, or violate building codes.

🚿 Will this fix low pressure in my shower?

If your shower suffers from low pressure across all fixtures, a faulty PRV could be the root cause. If it’s isolated to one showerhead, there might be a clog or a different issue.

🧼 Will increasing water pressure improve my appliances?

Absolutely. Stronger pressure helps dishwashers, washing machines, and tankless water heaters work more efficiently.

🏠 How much does a new PRV cost?

At Revelation Plumbing, we offer free estimates. Costs vary based on accessibility and complexity, but we always provide clear, upfront pricing with no service fees.

📈 Why Homeowners in Pittsburgh Choose Revelation Plumbing

When it comes to water pressure problems, Revelation Plumbing is Pittsburgh’s trusted name for expert service, fair pricing, and no-nonsense repairs.

• 🛠️ 10+ years of plumbing experience

• ⭐ 5-star reviews across Google & Facebook

• 🏡 Locally owned & operated

• ⚡ Same-day appointments

• 💬 Friendly, honest communication

• 💲 No service fees

  
  

Whether you live in Mt. Lebanon, Shadyside, North Hills, Fox Chapel, or anywhere in between—we’ll come to the rescue.

📞 Ready for Better Water Pressure? We’re Just a Call Away!

Don’t settle for weak water flow. Whether your showers feel like a drizzle or your sink barely rinses the soap away, a new pressure reducing valve could be the solution.

Contact Revelation Plumbing today for a free pressure test and quote.

Call us at (412) 518-7170 or book online at www.revelation-plumbing.com