The Uniform Plumbing Code requires a pressure reducing valve on all plumbing systems exceeding 80 psi. Additionally, irrigation systems may require a reducing valve if pressures exceed 70 psi. This requirement will prevent damage of the piping system due to excessive pressures.
Chatter and other noises originating at a pressure reducing valve tend to be more frequent at low flows. Oversizing valves to decrease headloss is commonplace in system design, however, sizing valves based on the minimum and maximum system demand (gpm) is still the preferred method.
The valve probably has debris on the seal ring and seat. This is not an uncommon situation. There will always be a significant amount of debris created when a plumbing system is under construction. Cleaning the regulator and flushing the system help reduce the probability of "fouling" due to debris within the system.
Fall-off is the difference between the set pressure (regulator outlet) and the flowing pressure at any given demand. Fall-off increases as demand increases and vice versa. It is important to remember that fall-off is inherent in most every water system and that pressure decreases as flow demand increases.
Sizing of a regulator is best determined using known system demands. The smaller the demand, the smaller the regulator required to satisfy that demand. Once the demand is established refer to the published flow curves for the most appropriate size. A good rule of thumb is to size a regulator so that the fall-off will be between 10 and 15 psi.
A battery system consists of two or more regulators installed in parallel whose pressure settings allow one valve to open before the other.
All WILKINS regulators can be repaired provided the body is still in a repairable condition. A repair kit is available and can be installed without removing the body from the system. These kits contain all of the parts necessary to repair any WILKINS regulator.
The easiest way to test a regulator is to install pressure gages upstream and downstream of the valve. If the gages show equal pressures, most likely the regulator has become fouled by debris. Open a fixture downstream of the valve such as the kitchen sink, outside hose bibb, etc. Then, close the fixture and observe the downstream gage. A steady rapid increase points to a fouled regulator. A slow rise of pressure on the downstream side may be caused by thermal expansion. Consult the installation instructions for more troubleshooting tips.
Does the bell housing have to point in a certain direction?
No, the bell housing and body can be in any orientation as long as the arrow on the side of the valve points in the direction of the flow of water.
Is it normal for water to leak out of the bell housing?
No this is not normal. This is usually a sign that the diaphragm is damaged or installed improperly. Taking apart the valve and inspecting the diaphragm for damage or incorrect installation is the next step. Replacing the damaged diaphragm or reinstalling it correctly will most likely solve this problem.
Last revised June 21, 2005