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Why is a Pressure Limiting Valve Important?
1. Protection Against High Water Pressure: The primary function of a Pressure Limiting Valve is to regulate the water pressure flowing into your home. Australian building codes typically mandate a maximum water pressure of 500kPa. Anything above this can stress your plumbing fixtures and appliances, leading to potential failures and significant damage. By installing a PLV, you reduce the risk of such pressure-related issues.
2. Compliance with Building Codes: To comply with Australian Standards, homes must have mechanisms in place to control water pressure, and PLVs are commonly used for this purpose. Ensuring that your home meets these standards not only enhances the longevity of your plumbing system but also adheres to legal requirements.
3. Insurance Implications: Many homeowners are unaware that the absence of a Pressure Limiting Valve can impact their insurance coverage. There have been instances where insurance claims were denied following damage related to high water pressure, such as when a person faced $200,000 in damages that were not covered by their policy because they did not have a PLV installed. Insurance companies may view the lack of a PLV as negligence in maintaining the plumbing system, thus denying claims related to water pressure damage.
Installing a Pressure Limiting Valve: A Form of Insurance for Your Plumbing
Installing a PLV can be seen as a proactive measure to protect your home’s plumbing system. Here’s how it serves as an investment into the safety and compliance of your property:
1. Prevents Appliance and Fixture Damage: By controlling water pressure, PLVs prevent the undue stress that can cause premature wear and tear on appliances like washing machines, dishwashers, and water heaters, as well as fixtures like taps and toilets.
2. Reduces Risk of Plumbing Failures: High water pressure can lead to burst pipes, joint failures, and leaks. A PLV reduces these risks significantly by ensuring that the pressure within your pipes does not exceed safe limits.
3. Enhances Overall Plumbing System Longevity: Consistent and appropriate water pressure prolongs the life of your plumbing system, reducing the need for frequent repairs and replacements.
4. May Lower Insurance Premiums: Some insurers consider the installation of a PLV a risk-reducing factor and may offer lower premiums as it decreases the likelihood of pressure-related damage claims.
Conclusion
For homeowners, installing a Pressure Limiting Valve is a critical step in managing your property’s plumbing health. It not only ensures compliance with Australian Standards but also safeguards against potentially expensive damages that could be excluded from insurance coverage.
Don’t wait for a plumbing emergency to find out if your home is protected. If you’re unsure about the status of your home’s water pressure management, contact Wild Water Plumbing on 1800 659 130 or visit our website. We can assess your current plumbing system, install a Pressure Limiting Valve if necessary, and help you ensure that your home meets all required standards for safety and insurance compliance. Let us help you keep your home safe and secure, avoiding the unnecessary stress and expense of unanticipated plumbing failures.