What is the purpose of a pressure-reducing valve?

A pressure-reducing valve is specifically designed to lower and stabilize high water pressure within a plumbing system. High water pressure can cause various issues, such as damaging pipes, fixtures, and appliances, leading to leaks and other failures. The valve operates by automatically adjusting to incoming pressure and maintaining a reduced, consistent output pressure, ensuring that the system works effectively while protecting it from excessive pressure.

While increasing water pressure is the opposite of what the valve does, preventing water hammer is related to the management of pressure changes during water flow but is not the primary function of a pressure-reducing valve. Adding air to the water supply is also unrelated to the function of a pressure-reducing valve; this is typically addressed through different means, such as air chambers or expansion tanks. Overall, the pressure-reducing valve is essential for maintaining safe and efficient operation in plumbing systems where high pressure is a concern.