The picture above shows the pressure reducer location relative to the water meter and the picture below shows a closer look at a pressure reducing valve.

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We want to reduce backflow by ensuring more backflow preventers are installed or maintained across the city. This is why we have a backflow prevention bylaw that that affects commercial, industrial, institutional, large multi-residential buildings and irrigation systems.

Backflow happens when water flows towards our water system instead of towards a business or home. This creates the potential for contamination and is of higher concern for commercial, institutional, large residential buildings and irrigation systems.

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Installing a backflow preventer (BFP) can stop this problem before it occurs. These devices ensure unwanted substances do not enter the city's clean water supply.

Low Water PressureLow water pressure at one faucet? A clogged aerator on a faucet can slow the flow.  Remove the aerator from the faucet, clean it, and put back on.Low water pressure only with hot water? Consult with a plumber.Low water pressure throughout the house?Products like water softeners or filters may reduce water pressure if recently added or needs to be serviced.  A water leak in plumbing can also affect pressure.If you have a pressure reducing valve (PRV) installed to protect your plumbing, it may need adjusting.  Most PRVs are installed after the water meter or before the water heater.  Talk to a plumber before adjusting it.If your water pressure suddenly drops to almost nothing ... it is could be a result of a broken water line.  High Water Pressure If your home is in a geographically low point or near a water pumping station, you may experience water pressure higher than 80 psi.  Sustained pressure that exceeds 80 psi can damage on-site plumbing systems and may affect your water fixtures. Unfortunately, the Acton Water District can’t alleviate high water pressure, but you may consider having a licensed plumber install a pressure-reducing valve at your home. Massacusetts plumbing codes require pressure-reducing valves (PRVs) to be installed on new or remodeled residential plumbing where water pressure exceeds 80 psi. A PRV reduces the water pressure coming into your home, if needed, to protect your plumbing much the same way that a surge protector protects your computer or television. A licensed plumber can assess your current plumbing system and recommend whether a PRV is needed for your home.

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The normal pressure for your property will depend on its physical relation to the water source supply (tanks and reservoirs). If your home is at a higher elevation relative to a tank’s location, you will have lower pressure. Conversely, the lower your home is located downhill from the tank, the higher the pressure.