Water is known as the main lifeblood of the home. While it is a positive addition, on the most part, it can also be a highly significant source of damage to the property and may result in high levels of utility waste. For several decades now, homeowners have come to depend heavily upon mechanical-based valves that place an emphasis on reducing pressure (PRVs). These aid in managing the overall force of water that enters into the pipes of the home. While high in terms of functionality, the devices are basically considered to be “dumb”. They are unable to call attention to any type of failure, they cannot adapt to various conditions, and they are unable to turn off the water to the home if a pipe bursts. 

Now, there is a smart water pressure regulator available on the market. It integrates technology, specialized sensors, shut-off valves, and other features that transition the once “dumb” device into an intelligent system that is driven by data. In this guide, we will expound on today’s modern water pressure regulators and the associated benefits. If you are interested in protection of your infrastructure, savings, peace of mind, and environmental-based sustainability, continue reading to learn more. 

Technological Basics 

In order to truly understand the benefits associated with water pressure regulators, you must have a solid understanding of the technological basics of the valves. First, it is important to know and understand what makes the regulator to become “smart”. The traditional valves are designed with a mechanism that involves the use of a diaphragm and spring. These components are designed to physically restrict the flow of water. If the regulator is “smart”, it will likely include the following components:

1. Digital-Based Transducers – These are sensors that measure both the flow rate (GPM) and the pressure (PSI) in an accurate manner. In most instances, this happens hundreds of times each second. 
2. Microprocessors and Connectivity – The microprocessors are designed to process data in a local manner and then transmit that data to Wi-Fi or an app on a mobile device and/or a hub in a smart hub. 
3. Actuated Valves – These can be opened and closed and even adjusted in a remote manner and through the means of a specially-designed internal motor. 

When you put all of the above-listed components into place, the regulator moves from reduced water pressure to managed water pressure. 

Plumbing and Appliance Protection 

The top benefit associated with water pressure regulators that are “smart” is the fact that it aids in increasing the overall lifespan of your entire plumbing systems in your home and all attached appliances. Plumbers know that high levels of water pressure are considered to be the “silent killer” of a plumbing system. In most instances, the water pressure must be between 40 PSI AND 60 PSI in a residence. Water lines that are part of a municipality, may have a pressure of up to 100 PSI. This is especially true of overnights when less people are using the water. 

The old-fashioned water regulator has the potential to fail as time progresses. In most cases, homeowners do not even realize that it is happening. If a “smart” water regulator is used, it will provide an alert on a real-time basis when the water pressure exceeds the threshold that is considered to be safe. If water pressure is kept at an optimal level, it prevents components such as the seals, pipe joints, and the gaskets from wearing down. 

Appliance Protection 

In today’s world of modern advanced appliances such as high efficiency washing machines, fridges that include ice makers, water heaters that are tankless, and similar appliances, there is a new heightened sensitivity when it comes to fluctuations with water pressure. If high pressure occurs, the solenoid valves in the appliances are known to fail in a premature manner, and will cause costly repairs. Smart water pressure regulators will act as a type of a surge protector for the entire water system. This helps to ensure that your expensive appliances are not stressed by that overnight spike in pressure stemming from the main water line of the city. 

Getting Rid of the Water Hammer

A water hammer happens when a valve suddenly closes ands the moving water momentum causes a shockwave of pressure through the pipes. Often this sounds like a very big thud sound and it is possible for that shockwave to loosen pipes from the mounts that are holding them in place. If there is a smart water regulator in place, it can be programmed so that it properly modulates the flow of water and that the shockwaves are absorbed. This results the water system being quieter. 

Leak Detection and Mitigation of Damage 

In terms of homeowner’s insurance claims, water damage ranks in at second place and is also considered to be the most expensive. If a smart water pressure regulator is in place, leaks can be quickly detected and the damage can be safely and quickly mitigated. The following outlines how this works:

1. Finding Small Leaks – The average leak can be found  easily. Typically, there is a puddle of water. Micro-leaks are typically more challenging to locate. These leaks may be found under floorboards and may leak for months before discovered. During this time, the water is causing immense levels of damage. A smart water pressure regulator will quickly detect a leak and will actually shut down the entire water system. In addition to shutting the water system down, it will also notify you of the issue so that you may remedy the situation quickly. This will help in preventing rot of the structure and the growth of mold. 
2. Automatic Shut Down – Smart water pressure regulators include automatic shut-off valves. If any pipe bursts, or any hose to an appliance pops off, the regulator will detect a dangerous flow of water. Immediately, you will receive a notification on your phone. This could help in preventing expensive repairs to the floor and/or the drywall in your home. 

Financial Savings 

When shopping for a smart water pressure regulator, you will quickly find that they are more expensive than a mechanical-based valve. The good news is there are many financial savings. Additionally, there is a high level of return on investment. Consider the following:

1. Reduced Water Bills – When you use a smart water regulator, it optimizes the water pressure in your home. This naturally reduces the amount of water that is being used. High pressure results in more water being pushed through faucets throughout the home. If you reduce the pressure to 50PSI from 80PSI, you can save up to 15% on your water bill each month. 
2. Insurance Discounts – Smart water regulators help in preventing catastrophic levels of water damage. Because of this, many providers in the home insurance industry offer homeowners discounts if they have these types of water regulators. In fact, the savings may pay for themselves in as little as two years. 
3. Avoiding Plumbing Emergencies – Plumbing emergencies are very expensive. By catching issues early with a smart water regulator, you can avoid paying for expensive plumbing emergencies. These catch leaks and prevent a lot of damage that may occur with plumbing emergencies. 

Water Conservation 

Water scarcity and droughts are becoming increasingly more common in various parts of the United States. Every single gallon that is saved contributes to a bigger goal that is beneficial to the environment. Consider the following: 

1. Quantifying Conservation – If you use a smart water pressure regulator, you can often see exactly how much water is used. It will also help you compare activities that you engage in – like how much water you use taking a shower versus a bath, how much water is used doing a small load of laundry to a large load of laundry, etc. By seeing exactly what you use you will be more motivated to reduce your water usage. 
2. Reducing Energy Usage – Saving water also allows you to save energy. By using a smart water regulator, you can reduce the waste associated with hot water usage. You can discover what settings allow you to use less settings on appliances in your home, you can save money there, too. 

Additional Benefits 

The following outlines many additional benefits associated with the use of smart water pressure regulators:

• Remote Monitoring 
• Integration of Technology in the Home 
• Long-Term Planning with Data Insights 
• Cybersecurity 
• Power Outage Protection 
• Safety

If you have an interest in having a smart water pressure regulator installed in your home, you can contact us here at Reynolds Plumbing today. Not only can we install this systems into your home, we can upgrade the entire water system of your home so that you are able to reap the rewards outlined within this guide. For more information or to set up an appointment, contact us today by dialing the following number. Remember to inquire about our commitment to excellence and warranties that we provide to our customers: 7659660994