Whether your state has mandated water pressure regulators for your outdoor sprinkler system, you’ll find that your lawn and your wallet will still benefit from a water pressure regulator that controls your outdoor sprinkler system.

Water pressure regulator devices, or pressure-reducing valves (PRV), are critical to a flourishing lawn while ensuring efficient water distribution.

Water pressure regulators fine-tune the water flow, preventing excessive pressure that leads to waste and strain on your water sprinkler system. Maintaining an optimal balance ensures that your sprinklers provide full coverage, preventing over-soaking and underwatering.

Understanding Water Pressure

With water pressure regulators, you gain control over water conservation and distribution while enjoying a healthy lawn. Your lawn recovers from heat stress faster, and there will be no more uneven patches from a lack of spray head reach.

When installing a PRV, your home’s water pressure determines how fast or slow water comes from your sprinklers.

For in-ground sprinkler systems, the pressure should be 30 to 45 pounds per square inch (psi). A psi higher than 45 causes water waste through high flow rates, fogging, misting, uneven coverage, and overspray.


Increased psi can be caused by too much pressure in the system or landscape elevation changes. You can get consistent water pressure by adding a regulator to your household water line.

Here are four ways that high water pressure affects your lawn:

• Too much pressure sends too much water to your lawn
• This excess water leads to erosion and lawn chemicals going into stormwater drains
• Wasted water means that you’re paying more for water than what your lawn needs
• High water pressure damages the sprinkler system’s pipes, valves, and spray heads.

Conversely, your sprinkler system won’t work as efficiently with low water pressure. The sprinkler heads might not pop up, the spray heads can’t reach the neighboring ones for irrigation, and there will be an uneven spray pattern.

A water pressure regulator maintains consistently stable water pressure within the sprinkler system. This is achieved by counteracting the potential fluctuations in water pressure from indoor water usage changes and municipal water pressure shifts.

What Are Water Pressure Regulators?

Water pressure regulators are devices connected to the house’s plumbing system, either where the lawn sprinklers connect to the home’s plumbing system or installed within the house’s system.

Your plumber or irrigation contractor should install a pressure regulator in your home; this isn’t a job for DIY’ers unless you have plumbing know-how.

You can also buy spray heads with pressure regulators already built into them. For example, K-Rain’s Pro-S™ Sprays with Pressure Regulator (pdf) is certified with EPA Water Sense.

When the Pro-S Sprays bear the WaterSense label

• They’re 20% plus more water-efficient than average sprays
• Nationally, there are recognized water savings
• You’ll see a reduction in your water bills
• Water efficiency is improved through technology add-ons
• These spray heads will last longer because they’ll put out water at 30 to 40 psi.

Driplines also need pressure regulators to ensure water comes out at 30 psi rather than a higher one so your vegetable and flower beds aren’t overwatered. You can get a 1” 30 PSI Pressure Regulator from us if you have a K-Rain dripline irrigation system.

How to Choose the Right Regulator for Your Residential Sprinklers

Before heading out to Lowe’s or Home Depot, you first need to consider the factors affecting your water pressure, including

• Incoming water pressure
• Required outlet pressure for your sprinkler system
• The flow rate needed to operate your sprinklers effectively.

If you don’t know anything about plumbing, you may want to consult a professional plumber because you can ruin your indoor plumbing and sprinkler system if you choose the wrong PRV.

How to Install a PRV Made Simple

If you’re a DIY’er and know about household plumbing, you may want to install a water pressure regulator to your home’s plumbing system or outside where the sprinkler system connects with your home’s plumbing.

Here are general guidelines for installing a PRV to your home’s water sprinkler system—always consult a plumber if you don’t have the necessary knowledge and experience.

Materials You'll Need:

• Water pressure regulator
• Pipe cutter or hacksaw
• Pipe wrenches or adjustable pliers
• Teflon tape or pipe thread sealant
• Pipe fittings (if necessary)
• Pipe and fittings for bypass line (if desired)
• Mounting hardware (screws, anchors, etc.)
• Safety goggles and gloves.

Steps to installing a water pressure regulator:
1.  Choose the Location
2.  Shut Off the Water
Turn off the main water supply to your home or the specific water line connected to the sprinkler system. This is crucial for safety during the installation process.

3.  Measure and Cut
Measure the section of the pipe where you plan to install the pressure regulator. Use a pipe cutter or hacksaw to cut the pipe at the measured location. Make sure the cuts are clean and straight.

4. Install the Pressure Regulator

• Wrap the threaded ends of the pressure regulator with Teflon tape or apply pipe thread sealant to create a watertight seal.
• Thread the pressure regulator onto the cut pipe sections. Use pipe wrenches or adjustable pliers to tighten the connections securely. Avoid over-tightening to prevent damaging the threads.

5.  Connect the Bypass Line
If you want to install a bypass line, connect it to the upstream and downstream sides of the pressure regulator. This line allows water to flow around the regulator when necessary, such as during maintenance.

6.  Mounting the Regulator
Mount the pressure regulator securely to a wall or support using appropriate mounting hardware. Make sure it is stable and won't shift or vibrate excessively.

7.  Connect the Pipes 

• Attach the downstream end of the pressure regulator to the sprinkler system line using threaded fittings. Again, use Teflon tape or pipe thread sealant on the threaded ends to ensure a proper seal.
• If you've installed a bypass line, connect it to the appropriate sections of the piping as well.

  8.  Test the Installation
Turn on the main water supply and check for leaks around the connections. If you notice any leaks, tighten the fittings appropriately.

9.  Adjust the Pressure
Most pressure regulators have an adjustment screw or knob that allows you to set the desired water pressure. Follow the manufacturer's instructions to adjust the pressure to a suitable level for your sprinkler system.

10.  Regular Maintenance
Periodically check the pressure regulator for leaks and ensure it's functioning correctly. If you notice any issues, address them promptly to avoid potential damage to your sprinkler system.

Remember that local plumbing codes and regulations may vary, so it's a good idea to consult with professional or local authorities if you need clarification on any installation process. If you're uncomfortable with the installation, hiring a licensed plumber is recommended to ensure a safe and proper setup.

Regular Upkeep and Troubleshooting of Your PRV

As with anything else, you need to check on your pressure regulator and sprinkler system to ensure they’re working well and that there are no leaks. Here is a checklist to refer to when inspecting the PRV and your water sprinklers:

• Check for leaks, damage, or irregular water flow
• If necessary, clean or replace clogged filters in the PRV
• Ensure that all sprinkler heads work correctly and provide uniform water distribution throughout your yard.

If you live in a colder climate where temperatures drop to 32°F or below, winterize your sprinkler system and the water pressure regulator before temperatures nearly freeze.

Here are the steps for winterizing your outdoor sprinkler system:

• Drain the water out of the system
• Since some water may be left after drainage, use an air compressor to blow out the rest of the water from the system
• Open all valves in the system
• If you have a backflow preventer, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for winterization
• Insulate above-ground pipes and other components that can’t be drained
• Store removable components
• Turn controller settings to off and adjust other settings as needed
• Conduct regular maintenance on your sprinkler system throughout the winter to ensure everything is in good condition.

Revolutionizing Watering Efficiency: How K-Rain Irrigation Solutions Fulfill All Your Sprinkler System Needs

Experience K-Rain's revolutionary Sprinkler System Solutions, transforming lawn and landscape irrigation for homeowners. Whether you're a DIY enthusiast or seek professional expertise, our comprehensive services and resources ensure a seamless journey to a lush landscape.

Ready to upgrade your sprinkler system with a water pressure regulator? Discover K-Rain products at these leading retailers, or shop online today!

For assistance with your K-Rain irrigation system, contact our dedicated customer service team at 800-735-7246 or fill out our form. Unlock the full potential of water conservation and streamlined water pressure with K-Rain's Sprinkler System Solutions, offering exceptional quality, convenience, and support.

Choose us today for a rewarding journey to a thriving landscape.

Sources:
DripDepot.com, Irrigation Pressure Regulator Buying Guide.
EPA.gov, Relieve Pressure and Reduce Water Waste from Spray Sprinklers (pdf).
Extension.OKState.edu, Managing Pressure in the Home Irrigation System.