The expansion control valve ECV is designed to relieve the increase in pressure caused by the water expansion during the normal heating cycle. It is recommended that an ECV be fitted to the cold water supply line. This will relieve cold water, not hot water, during the heating cycle saving energy and increasing the life of the pressure temperature relief valve (PTR). Some local governments make it mandatory to install an ECV in the cold water line. PTR and ECV valves are safety valves and should be replaced every 4 years.

If you are ever in need, then Network Plumbing is here to help with emergency plumbers available 24 hours, 7 days a week, however, our best advice is to read on further to learn and understand the importance of pressure limiting valves and how reducing your pressure is beneficial in more ways then you know. There is an Australian standard for a reason!

Installation of a pressure limiting valve that has a maximum threshold of 500kpa may take the strain off your pipework, reducing the shock wave and possibly ending the hammering. The search to stop the hammering may be to install a pressure limiting valve.

There are some key signs to look out for that may be a warning that you are in need of a water pressure limiting valve or a replacement when your pressure limiting valve is leaking. These include (but are not limited to):

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Have you ever noticed an annoying banging or excessive noise at times when you turn your plumbing on and off? Water flow may have something to do with this! Hammering is the shock wave that occurs when the water service is shut off and the high amounts of water pressure has nowhere to go. This force continues resulting in the noise, the banging in the walls after the inlet has been closed.

While most of us appreciate a nice strong shower water pressure or being able to fill the sink up quickly, if water is running through your pipes at too high of a pressure, your plumbing will begin to suffer by putting strain on your plumbing system, fittings, and appliances.

If you have tried to adjust your water pressure limiting valve and have a leaking PLV, it could be for due to improper seating of the valve or when the seal is broken. Leaks may occur if the valve operates at a pressure too near to its designated set point.

The damage that could occur due to high water pressure could include water hammer, burst pipes, water leaks, leaking taps and a wide range of issues that create strains on your plumbing. It can also reduce the lifespan of appliances such as dishwashers.

Older homes are exempt from this rule, however, taking extra precautions is recommended. Make sure you have your water pressure checked by a professional licensed plumber and have a pressure limiting valve installed.

We also know what you're thinking, will a pressure limiting valve affect the pressure of your shower? Everyone loves a nice strong hot water shower, especially in winter, and your hot water system will still get great pressure even when capped at the 500kpa mark. So, don't stress! That hot water will still come through nice and strong for you.

This is one plumbing job that should not be on the DIY project list! Only an experienced tradie should test, install or replace a pressure limiting valve.

A water pressure limiting valve (or PLV) is a vital component that limits the flow and amount of water pressure travelling though your pipes and plumbing. The valve stays open to allow pressure through and if the pressure rises above the preset maximum, the valve shuts off the water.

If after reading this blog, you are wondering whether you have a pressure limiting valve or are in need of getting our water pressure tested, then please don't delay - contact us here at Network Plumbing on 9023 3232 and we will send our technician who will be able to assess your plumbing and give you an upfront and on the spot price for the works needed to be carried out to ensure the safety of you and your family as well as extend the life of your range of appliances that use the supply of water.

If you have a current hammering issue, contact our customer care phone number 9023 3232 to discuss your plumbing concern. Please note, this shock wave is not limited to only a water supply pipe, it can occur in a gas line service as well which means you'll need the services of an experienced Sydney gas fitter.

There are Australian Standards in place to protect you and your property from potential damage that might occur. Extra precautions are taken by making every new build (or extension work at a home) install a pressure limiting valve. With a PLV, the water pressure is capped at 500kpa thus reducing the strain put on your plumbing system.

Pressure limiting valves do not last forever, so, even if you don't have any signs that your PLV maybe be on its way out, the next time you have a plumber at your home, ask them to test your PLV for you. It's better to be safe than sorry!

Hot water systems are not made with a PLV but they do certainly benefit from the installation of one to the plumbing at your water meter assemblies. As you can imagine, too much pressure on your hot water system could cause damage to it (as well as many other appliances for that matter). As the high volume and strength of the water is on the search for somewhere to go, if it finds other appliances that are not cut out for a water supply above 500kpa, it may find a weakness and cause unnecessary damage. This is why the installation of PLVs are so important.

If you notice any of the above on your property or any other signs of high-pressure water supply issues, it's always best to contact a professional licensed Sydney plumber to have a look at your plumbing and to make a diagnosis as well as provide a solution for you.