Santa Margarita Water District

Proper water pressure saves water and prevents undue wear on appliances. As shown below, the higher the water pressure, the more water is used.

What is a water pressure regulator?

A water pressure regulator is a safety feature designed to prevent the water pressure inside your home from climbing too high or falling too low. Building codes require builders to install a water pressure regulator on homes when the street mainline pressure exceeds 80 psi (pounds per square inch). Most regulators are pre-set by manufacturers at 50 to 60 psi, which is the optimal pressure.

Where is the regulator located?

The regulator is a bell shaped device often located on the main line inlet pipe and usually near the house shut off valve (customer valve) outside the home. If you have one it is very important to know where it is and how to check it.

Adjusting the regulator

Most pressure regulators have an adjustment nut that can be used to increase or decrease the water pressure. Incorrectly adjusting the regulator could cause water pressure to become too high or too low. Unfortunately, SMWD is unable to adjust pressure regulators because they are considered to be the homeowner’s private property.

If an adjustment cannot be made to you regulator, it might need to be replaced. You may want to contact a local plumbing supply store or a plumbing professional.