Hose Bib & Irrigation
Valves Replacement

If your water meter is leaking, it’s important to take immediate action:

Call a Plumber: Contact a professional plumber right away to assess and repair the leak.
Contact Your Water Utility Provider: Inform your water utility provider about the leak. If the leak is between the meter and the utility’s main line, it is their responsibility to fix it. If the leak is between the meter and your home, the repair costs will be your responsibility.
Promptly addressing a leaking water meter can prevent water waste and potential damage to your property.

A pressure reducing valve (PRV), also known as a water pressure regulator, is a compact device used to lower high incoming water pressure from the public water main. Typically made from durable materials like bronze, a PRV ensures that the water pressure distributed to your household plumbing and fixtures is at a safer, more consistent level. This helps protect your plumbing system and appliances from the potential damage caused by excessive water pressure.

Installing a Pressure Reducing Valve (PRV) in your home plumbing system offers several benefits by controlling high water pressure. Excessive water pressure can lead to various issues, including:

Leaking Water Heaters: High pressure can cause water heaters to leak, leading to potential water damage.
Banging Water Pipes: Known as water hammer, this can damage pipes and create noisy disruptions.
Dripping Faucets: Constant high pressure can cause faucets to drip, wasting water and increasing bills.
Appliance Noise and Breakdown: High pressure can cause noise and reduce the lifespan of dishwashers and washing machines.
Leaking Water Pipes: Persistent high pressure can lead to leaks in the plumbing system.
Water flowing at a rate higher than necessary can be wasteful, damaging, and reduce the life expectancy of home equipment. A PRV helps maintain a set pressure in the house, typically around 50 pounds per square inch (psi), ensuring that the plumbing and appliances operate under a safe, moderate, and satisfactory pressure level.

A hose bibb vacuum breaker (HBVB) is a type of atmospheric vacuum breaker (AVB) commonly installed on hose bibbs of outdoor faucets. Its primary function is to protect against backsiphonage, preventing contaminated water from flowing back into the clean water supply. However, it does not protect against backpressure and is not designed for use under continuous pressure. Additionally, an HBVB should not have a shut-off valve downstream of the device to ensure proper functionality and safety.

The main water shut-off valve is a crucial control that allows you to turn off the water supply to your entire home. This valve serves several important functions:

Preventing Flooding: It helps prevent flooding when you need to repair a fixture, such as a faucet or toilet.
Handling Emergencies: It is essential during plumbing emergencies, such as leaks from a water heater or supply line, as it stops the flow of water to minimize damage.
Extended Absences: It’s a good practice to turn off the water supply when you plan to leave your home for an extended period, reducing the risk of leaks or flooding while you are away.
By knowing the location and operation of your main water shut-off valve, you can quickly and effectively manage your home’s water supply in various situations, ensuring safety and preventing potential water damage.

To close an indoor water shut-off valve, turn it clockwise. For outdoor shut-off valves, you might need specialized tools, such as a meter key or a wrench, to open the cover and shut down the valve itself. If you’re uncertain about the required tools, feel free to ask us for advice.

It’s crucial to be prepared for emergencies. Ensure that you and all household members know the exact location of your main water shut-off valve and how to operate it. Acting quickly in the event of severe leaks or flooding can significantly reduce water damage, potentially saving you thousands of dollars and avoiding a major headache.

Understanding the division of responsibilities for water pipes can clarify who to contact in case of a problem:

County or City Responsibilities: The county or city is responsible for the pipes on the “street side” of the water meter. This includes all service lines and water mains extending throughout the community, as well as the water meter itself. If you notice a water leak in the street or near your water meter, contact your local water company immediately.

Property Owner Responsibilities: The property owner is responsible for all pipes and plumbing on the “customer side” of the water meter. This includes the interior plumbing of the home, the outside irrigation system, and the area where the property’s water system connects to the water meter. Regular maintenance and timely repairs of these systems are essential to prevent water damage and ensure efficient operation.

Knowing these distinctions helps ensure that any water issues are addressed by the correct party, minimizing delays and potential damage.