Plus, it can increase your water bills.

The Spruce / Kevin Norris

Is My Water Pressure Too High?

If yours measures over 80 PSI on the gauge, it is definitely time to lower the pressure.

Water pressure gauge attached to faucet to test water pressure

The Spruce / Kevin Norris

This is a common plumbing valve installed right after the pipe where the water meter enters the house.

If you do not already have one installed, it may be time to call the pros.

Soldering or brazing may be required when connecting dissimilar materials.

Materials and tools to fix super high water pressure

The Spruce / Kevin Norris

Take this possibility into consideration when deciding if you want to call a professional.

Adjust the Pressure

The regulator will have a screw or bolt and a locking nut system.

You may want to run a faucet for a few seconds to clear any air out of the system.

Water turned off by turning lever on main water supply line

The Spruce / Kevin Norris

Once you locate it, write down the specifications.

Doing both will eliminate a vacuum and ensure as much of the water drains out as possible.

Set up plastic sheeting underneath and behind your work area.

Locking nut loosened on regulator with pliers

The Spruce / Kevin Norris

Alternatively (or in addition) place a bucket beneath the old valve on the ground.

Remove the Old Regulator

Loosen the nuts on each side of the old regulator with a wrench.

set up the New Regulator

Seat the O-rings and set up the new regulator.

Water pressure gauge testing system

The Spruce / Kevin Norris

The valve is directional and must be installed right side up.

This means the water should flow in through one side and out of the other.

There will be an arrow on the side of the valve indicating the proper direction.

Lock nut secured on regulator with pliers

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Hand tighten each union, taking time to check that the O-rings are in the proper position.

Finish Tightening the Nuts

Use a wrench to finish tightening the nuts.

Do not over-tighten, but ensure they are snug.

Water turned on by moving lever on main water supply line

The Spruce / Kevin Norris

Test for Leaks

Dry off the pipes and the new regulator.

Turn the faucets off after they have stopped sputtering.

Return to the work area and inspect for leaks.

Water pressure regulator located on water main

The Spruce / Kevin Norris

Some leaks can be slow, so take your time and be thorough in this process.

If you see a slow leak, try reseating the O-rings.

Your plumbing system is now ready to use.

Water turned off by turning lever on shut-off valve

The Spruce / Kevin Norris

Water being drained from sink faucet

The Spruce / Kevin Norris

Red bucket placed under regulator to catch trapped water

The Spruce / Kevin Norris

O-ring held next to new valve for prepping

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Old regulator removed with wrench from water pipe

The Spruce / Kevin Norris

New regulator installed with O-ring inserted on side

The Spruce / Kevin Norris

Nuts being tightened with wrench near new regulator

The Spruce / Kevin Norris

Main water line checked for leaks after regulator installed

The Spruce / Kevin Norris

Regulator adjusted with wrench for desired water pressure

The Spruce / Kevin Norris