Irrigation Pressure Regulator Buying Guide

Modified on: Wed, 31 Jan, at 8:17 AM

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Welcome to the Pressure Regulator Buying Guide! If you&#;ve made it this far, you&#;re probably on the right track. In this guide you will learn about pressure regulators; what they do, who needs them, how they work, and what information you&#;ll need to determine the best device for your system. 

If you would like a quick overview of what you need to know about your system to select a unit - check out our Pressure Regulator Flow Chart.

For a more comprehensive overview, continue reading!

What does a pressure regulator do?

The water pressure regulator maintains the pressure within the system and protects against spikes or sudden drops in pressure from the water source. This device ensures the pressure within the system will stay consistent, thus resulting in optimal performance from the emitting devices.

Please note, various watering devices may specify they are &#;pressure compensating&#; however, this is different than pressure regulation. Compensation refers to an emitter consistently disbursing the pre-set flow rate, regardless of small pressure changes, however, pressure compensating emitting devices will not regulate the system pressure. 

Who needs a pressure regulator?

Most if not all, pressurized irrigation systems will require a pressure regulator. An exception to this would be if you are using a gravity system with very low pressure, or very low flow. Pressure regulators do require sufficient flow to regulate the pressure and at least a 5 - 15 PSI differential between inlet pressure and regulating pressure.

How does a pressure regulator work? 

Water flows through the inlet, around the seat and through the t-stem. Water pressure acting on the diaphragm forces the spring to compress, pushing the t-stem toward the seat. The closing of the area between the seat and the t-stem reduces the water pressure on the diaphragm. The balance between the force on the diaphragm and spring resistance establishes the outlet pressure.

Irrigation pressure regulators need outflow and back pressure to regulate the pressure within your irrigation system. With no water flowing through the regulator, the inlet and outlet pressures will measure the same. To verify the pressure maintained in your system, you will need to place a pressure gauge at the end of one of the zones, turn the zone on, let it pressurize and once the lines have filled and emitters begin to flow then take the reading. This will reflect the working pressure within your system. To learn more on testing pressure regulators, see this short video: How to Test a Pressure Regulator. 

Because of this, a certain amount of pressure (PSI) and flow (GPH/GPM) is required for a pressure regulator to operate. 

What factors should be considered when selecting a pressure regulator?

1. Flow rate of the system - Not just the water source

In order for a pressure regulator to operate correctly, a certain flow rate must be met. Not just at the inlet of the regulator, but through the outlet as well. This means your system must meet a certain amount of flow. 

If you need to determine the flow rate of your water source, here is our flow rate calculator. 

To determine the flow rate of your system, you will want to add up the number of emitters and multiply by the emitter flow rate. For instance, if you have 100 emitters with a flow rate of .5 GPH, (100 emitters x .5 GPH each = 50 GPH). You will want to take into consideration the flow rate of your system is 50 GPH. 

To convert from gallons per hour (GPH) to minutes (GPM), simply divide by 60 (minutes). In this example, 50 GPH/ 60 minutes = .833 GPM.

• Low flow is typically 6 GPH (.1 GPM) to 420 GPH (7 GPM)

• Medium flow is normally 120 GPH (2 GPM) up to GPH (20 GPM)

• High flow is 600 GPH (10 GPM) up to GPH (32 GPM) 

• Ultra High flow is GPH (20 GPM) to GPH (100 GPM)

2. The pressure (PSI) of the water source and PSI requirements of the emitting devices

Checking the pressure of your water source can be done using a simple pressure gauge fitted with the hose thread adapter, here is a link to our selection of Pressure Gauges. Most pressure regulators require at least 5 PSI above the preset pressure in order to regulate the pressure. Meaning if you&#;re using a 20 PSI regulator, your water source must provide at least 25 PSI. 

3. The system configuration - Thread type and installation

Our pressure regulators are offered in a variety of thread types and sizes including pipe thread (NPT, FPT, MPT) and hose thread (FHT, MHT), in both female (F) and male ends (M), from ½&#; up to 3&#; connections. 

None of the standard pressure regulators we carry are rated for constant pressure. Meaning, that these must be installed after any timers or valves in order to ensure that the pressure is relieved during static (no flow) conditions. See the Senninger PRLV for downstream valve operation options.

When installing a head assembly in a hose bibb system, we recommend the following head assembly order of components: Timer (optional), Backflow Preventer, Filter, Pressure Regulator, 1/2" Swivel adapter or tubing adapter. For more information on head assemblies, check out our &#;Do I need a head assembly?&#; article. 

Here is a quick chart showing some of the Pressure Regulators we offer:

2-in-1 Pressure regulators:

In addition to regulating the pressure within the system, various manufacturers have also included an added filter element to help eliminate or reduce the need for additional system components. Various manufacturers (such as Aqualine and Hydro-rain) make 2-in-1 filter and pressure regulator combinations. These combination devices are great as they save money and space in your system assembly. 

Here is a quick chart:

Other regulators and pressure devices:

There are some system configurations where a pressure regulator is best installed at the valve. In this case, the Irritrol Omnireg Adjustable Pressure Regulator is a great item to use (please note this is only compatible with Irritrol Valves) directly on the valve. This device allows the user to precisely set and maintain the exact downstream pressure required for almost any application. It is adjustable from 5 PSI up to 100 PSI, by simply turning the easy-to-use dial to the desired setting.

Finally, the last device we will cover in this article are the pressure reducing valves. Pressure reducing valves are different than pressure regulators. One of the biggest differences with the reducers we carry is that they are able to withstand constant pressure, unlike pressure regulators.  

If you are looking for more details, kindly visit kairuite.

Additional resources:
Recommended Submersible Check Valve Installation.

If you have any questions, comments, or feedback, don't hesitate to get in touch with Us. We read and reply to every message we receive and would love to assist with your questions and learn from your feedback.

Navigating the shower valve landscape

If you&#;re planning to upgrade your shower setup, you may find yourself overwhelmed by the choices available, particularly when it comes to shower valves.

Modern or traditional, concealed or exposed, manual or thermostatic&#;the list of considerations can seem endless.

But don&#;t fret! Our comprehensive buying guide is here to simplify your decision-making process, providing you with everything you need to know about selecting the ideal shower valve for your home.

The role of your shower valve

At the heart of your shower system lies the shower valve&#;a device that serves as the control centre for your hot and cold water supplies.

Not only does it regulate water flow and temperature, but depending on its type, it can also channel water to multiple outlets such as a hand shower, fixed shower head, and even body jets.

Essentially, a shower valve functions as the gatekeeper for water flow and temperature in your shower.

Choosing the right shower valve

Before you plunge into the selection process, you must first understand your shower needs.

Are you looking for a basic setup featuring just a hand shower, or do you aspire to a luxurious multi-functional system?

Once you&#;ve assessed your preferences, you can better gauge which valve type best suits you.

Here&#;s a short breakdown of the different shower types to help you decide which would work for you.

Twin Thermostatic Shower Valve

Designed to control water flow to a single outlet, this valve comes equipped with two handles &#; one for temperature control and another for managing water flow.

Triple Thermostatic Shower Valve

This valve variant allows simultaneous water flow to two outlets, such as a fixed shower head and body jets.

It has three handles &#; one for temperature and two for individual flow controls.

Twin Thermostatic Shower Valve with Diverter

Ideal for dual outlets, this valve has a temperature control handle and a diverter that lets you toggle between different functions, like a fixed head and hand shower.

Triple Thermostatic Shower Valve with Diverter

This option is perfect for those desiring water flow to three different outlets.

It comes with three handles &#; one for temperature, one as a diverter, and the third for independent flow control to a third outlet.

Why opt for a thermostatic shower valve?

Thermostatic shower valves are equipped with an anti-scald feature, providing a stable water temperature even if someone else uses water elsewhere in the house.

These are highly recommended for homes with young children or the elderly.

Inside the thermostatic valve is a temperature-sensitive element that expands and contracts to balance the water temperature.

If your water supply is disrupted, the valve will automatically shut down, ensuring safety against scalding.

Imagine taking a shower and suddenly experiencing a scalding burst of hot water or an icy chill when someone else in the house flushes a toilet or uses a sink.

A thermostatic valve prevents such fluctuations by utilising an internal thermostat that senses changes in water temperature and adjusts the mix accordingly.

Key benefits of thermostatic shower valves

Safety first

The anti-scald feature is particularly beneficial in homes with children or elderly individuals.

With a thermostatic valve, you can set a maximum water temperature to prevent accidental burns.

Consistent Temperature

Ever experienced sudden water temperature changes?

Thermostatic valves offer a steady water temperature, giving you a more comfortable and enjoyable shower experience.

Versatility

Thermostatic valves can be paired with multiple showerheads, body jets, and other fixtures, providing you with a more customized and luxurious shower experience.

Installation and planning considerations

Outlet compatibility

Determine how many outlets (showerheads, hand showers, body jets, etc.) you want in your shower system.

Thermostatic valves come in twin, triple, and even quadruple configurations to accommodate multiple outlets.

Water pressure

Check your home&#;s water pressure level.

If you have low water pressure, you might need to install a water pump alongside your thermostatic valve to ensure optimal performance.

The type of wall

Some thermostatic valves can be concealed behind the wall for a sleek look, while others are designed to be exposed.

Make sure you know the type of installation that will work for your bathroom.

Professional installation

While DIY projects can be rewarding, installing a thermostatic valve requires a certain level of expertise.

A qualified plumbing professional should handle the installation to ensure it meets all safety and building regulations.

The flip side &#; Cons to consider

The cost

Thermostatic valves are generally more expensive than their manual counterparts.

However, the additional cost is usually offset by the long-term benefits of a safer and more consistent shower experience.

Keeping them maintained

Like all plumbing fixtures, thermostatic valves can develop issues over time, such as limescale build-up.

Regular maintenance and perhaps the occasional part replacement may be necessary.

Concealed vs. exposed shower valves

Concealed Shower Valves

Concealed shower valves are a great option if you want to achieve a neat, streamlined finish.

The valve and all the pipework is hidden behind the tiles in the shower area, and the only visible part is the face plate and handles.

This type of shower valve comes in a wide range of designs to enhance any bathroom style. A chrome finish blends seamlessly in with any décor, and the solid brass construction ensures great durability.

Modern handles can be square or round, while traditional feature more decorative details. For a classic and timeless look, opt for a valve with crosshead handles.

It&#;s important to consider the recess that will need creating behind the tiling. A concealed shower mixer valve will need approximately a recess depth of 100mm. If the space isn&#;t available, a thin stud wall can be built instead. When the tiling is completed, the face plate creates a neat, streamlined look.

In case anything goes wrong, the handles on a concealed shower valve can be removed, allowing access to the cartridges.

Reasons to Choose a Concealed Shower Valve

• Streamlined aesthetics
• Diverse style options
• More placement flexibility

Exposed shower valves

Available as modern bar designs and traditional styles with lever controls and ceramic details, exposed shower valves sit on the wall.

Although this doesn&#;t create such a neat finish, an exposed valve is usually less expensive to buy and install compared to a concealed shower valve.

Exposed valves are also ideal if you have solid brick walls that are unable to accommodate a concealed valve. As the hot and cold water pipes only need chasing in within the wall, it makes this type of valve quicker and easier to install.

An exposed valve is a cheaper option, but it doesn&#;t give you the same flexibility in the positioning and design choice.

So these are easier and less expensive to install, but they don&#;t offer the same aesthetic finesse as concealed valves (though the Elizabeth collection does look amazing!)

Reasons to Choose an Exposed Shower Valve

• Easier installation
• Cost-effective
• Availability of modern and traditional designs

Modern or traditional &#; What is your style?

Your final shower valve decision revolves aroiund the design, and this would usually be dictated by your bathroom&#;s overall theme.

For a modern look, you should opt for concealed valves with square or round handles.

For a classic touch of vintage sty;e. cross-heads or l;ever handles and exposed valve systems are the way to go.

And it is probably a good idea to mathc them up with your bath taps and basin taps too!

We hope this guide helps you to decide which shower valves are for you. Choosing the right shower needn&#;t be a daunting task. Use our detailed guide to mak an informed decision and ensure your shower set up is both functional and stylish!

John trained in journalism before joining the Big Bathroom Shop team. His exceptional journalism skills (and modesty) allow him to meticulously research bathroom topics and bring you the very latest news and views on all things bath and shower related. He&#;s a dab hand at Scrabble and is currently undertaking a domestic plumbing course to be sure he actually does know what he&#;s talking about!

Are you interested in learning more about regulating valves? Contact us today to secure an expert consultation!