Pressure regulator valves are a critical component on the water system, controlling both pressure and volume. Regulator frequently fail resulting in leaking pipes, running toilets, leaking relief valves on water heaters, exploding water filters and a variety of other problems. The manufacturers typically recommend replacing the valve every 5 years, however, 10 years is probably a more reasonable time. We see pressure regulators failing mostly at ages 5-30 years old. Signs of failure are whistling, leaking, fluctuating or surging water flow and the more obvious plumbing failures. My preferred brand of regulator are Wilkins,Watts and Acme. However, the Watts N55 and N35 models have an unusually high call back rate related to the valve being noisy. I normally suggest setting a regulator at a pressure between 45-80 PSI. To test your pressure a test gauge can be purchased at your local box lot store or online. The guage can be screwed on to the outside hose spigot or if the water heater is not to old can be screwed onto the water heater drain valve (old heaters tend to have sediment at the bottom quickly jamming the guage). When checking the pressure always check to make sure you are attaching to a faucet that is after the pressure reducing valve to get the proper reading. Purchasing a guage with a high limit needle will allow you to also check for pressure fluctuations due to thermal expansion or a regulator which is periodically failing.
