Water pressure is a double-edged sword in plumbing: too low, and showers become trickles; too high, and pipes risk bursting. For Long Beach homeowners, two devices often come up in pressure-related conversations: pressure-reducing valves (PRVs) and expansion tanks.
While both manage water pressure, they serve distinct roles—and understanding which one you need (or both!) can save your plumbing system from costly damage.
At A1 Best Plumbing, our licensed Long Beach Plumbers specialize in diagnosing and resolving water pressure issues. In this guide, we’ll break down the purpose of PRVs and expansion tanks, when they’re necessary, and how our Long Beach plumbing experts keep homes safe and efficient.
Pressure-Reducing Valves (PRVs): Taming High Water Pressure
What Is a PRV?
A pressure-reducing valve is installed on your main water line to lower incoming municipal water pressure to a safe level (typically 50–80 psi). Think of it as a “throttle” for your home’s plumbing.
When Do You Need a PRV?
A1 Best Plumbing recommends PRVs if:
- Your Water Pressure Exceeds 80 psi: Common in Long Beach neighborhoods near pumps or elevated reservoirs.
- You Experience Frequent Leaks: High pressure strains pipes, joints, and appliances.
- Your Home Is Older: Pre-1980s builds often lack modern pressure regulation.
Benefits of a PRV
- Prevents pipe damage and leaks.
- Extends the lifespan of water heaters, dishwashers, and washing machines.
- Reduces water waste and utility bills.
Expansion Tanks: Safeguarding Against Thermal Expansion
What Is an Expansion Tank?
An expansion tank is a small reservoir attached to your water heater. It absorbs excess pressure caused when heated water expands in a closed plumbing system.
When Do You Need an Expansion Tank?
A1 Best Plumbing advises installing one if:
- You Have a Closed Plumbing System: Features like backflow preventers or check valves block expanding water from flowing backward.
- Your Water Heater Warranty Requires It: Most manufacturers void warranties without an expansion tank.
- You Notice Pressure Fluctuations: Symptoms include “water hammer” (banging pipes) or leaking temperature-pressure relief valves.
Safety Note:
Without an expansion tank, thermal expansion can push pressure beyond 150 psi—enough to rupture pipes or water heaters.
Benefits of an Expansion Tank
- Prevents pressure spikes and water hammer.
- Protects water heaters from stress and leaks.
- Complies with plumbing codes and warranty terms.
Do You Need Both a PRV and an Expansion Tank?
Yes, in Most Cases!
PRVs and expansion tanks address different pressure sources:
- PRVs manage incoming municipal pressure.
- Expansion Tanks handle internal pressure from heated water.
In closed systems, a PRV traps heated water, making an expansion tank critical. A1 Best Plumbing’s technicians often install both to create a balanced, code-compliant system.
How A1 Best Plumbing Diagnoses Your Needs
Step 1: Pressure Testing
Using a gauge, we measure incoming pressure:
- ≥80 psi: PRV required.
- <80 psi: PRV may still help stabilize fluctuations.
Step 2: System Evaluation
We check for:
- Closed-system devices (backflow preventers).
- Water heater type and age.
- Signs of pressure damage (leaks, noisy pipes).
Step 3: Tailored Solutions
- PRV installation on the main line.
- Expansion tank sizing based on water heater capacity.
- Post-installation pressure checks.
4 Risks of Ignoring PRVs & Expansion Tanks
- Burst Pipes: High pressure stresses weak joints.
- Water Heater Failure: Excessive pressure cracks tanks.
- Voided Warranties: Missing an expansion tank invalidates most water heater coverage.
- Wasted Water: Leaks from strained fixtures increase bills.
FAQs About PRVs and Expansion Tanks
Q: Can I install a PRV or expansion tank myself?
A: DIY mistakes can worsen pressure issues. Our licensed team ensures proper sizing, placement, and code compliance.
Q: How long do these devices last?
A: PRVs last 10–15 years; expansion tanks last 5–10 years. Schedule annual inspections with A1 Best Plumbing.
Q: Are expansion tanks noisy?
A: No—they eliminate noise by absorbing water hammer.
Q: Does Long Beach require PRVs or expansion tanks?
A: California plumbing code mandates PRVs if pressure exceeds 80 psi and expansion tanks in closed systems.
Trust A1 Best Plumbing for Precision Pressure Solutions
Water pressure issues aren’t one-size-fits-all. By combining diagnostic expertise with high-quality installations, Our Long Beach plumbers ensure your Long Beach home receives the right protection:
- PRVs to shield against municipal pressure surges.
- Expansion Tanks to neutralize thermal expansion risks.
- 24/7 Emergency Repairs: For bursts, leaks, or sudden pressure drops.
Don’t wait for a pipe burst or failed water heater—contact A1 Best Plumbing today for a pressure assessment and code-compliant solutions.