The average Australian home’s incoming water pressure can vary greatly depending on the area you live in and peak/non peak times of the day. Significant fluctuations in usage can by industry and other homeowners, or lack thereof can increase the stress on your incoming water line and connection points within the home. This includes where the tube connects to your water supply, where the tube connects into your fridge and your fridge filter. A failure caused by excessive water pressure at any point can result in costly leaks and in extreme circumstances, flooding.
Here at Fridge Filters, we recommend that you always have a pressure limiting valve installed on the water line that carries the incoming water to the fridge. This helps to avoid excessive pressure building and interfering with your water filter and fridge tubing.
So what is a pressure limiting valve? It’s all in the name - by definition, it is designed to limit the incoming pressure in your water line. They ensure that your water-fed home appliances, hot water units and water filters are adequately protected. By installing one, it provides peace of mind that your home and appliances have adequate protection installed to limit the likelihood of coming home to a flooded kitchen after a few days away if the pressure spikes.
You may already have a PLV on your fridge line, please keep in mind that pressure limiting valves generally have a lifespan of approximately 5 years. This is due to the fact that as the water passes through it, prior to your filter, contaminants can build up, and the PLV can become calcified or blocked with contaminants.
When installing a new PLV for the first time or replacing an old one, take the opportunity to inspect the fridge or water filter line tubing. Usually, the tubing that carries the water to your fridge is made of polypropylene, which can degrade over time. Check out our article on why your tubing should be replaced here.
Protect your water line and peace of mind and check out our range of pressure limiting valves here.
