Forum Discussion

hohiso's avatar
hohiso
Explorer
Dec 30, 2013

Water Pressure Regulator - Two Questions

Finally bought a 'real' pressure regulator that has a gage and is adjustable. The gage is oil filled and directions are to keep it upright when in use. Straight up and down is not possible with direct connection to most water bibs, so the question is how upright is upright? Does the vent on top of the gage have to stay above the air bubble visible below it, or can it be above the oil?
Next question...for those of you who can adjust your water pressure...how high do you set it? My owners manual says not to exceed 45 psi or the warranty is void. Warranty is out of date and manufacturer is out of business so that doesn't matter anymore. Question is what is a practical safe upper limit?
  • wa8yxm's avatar
    wa8yxm
    Explorer III
    If you want to make it even more vertical, Get some garden hose elbows.

    30, 45 and 90 degree, Given one of each you can dang near turn === to ||

    Any lawn and garden shop.,
  • Any thing close to vertical should be good. Mine is at a slight angle and have never had a problem. I would think upside might cause a problem. :)
  • Bob - Like your rationale. Since I do have a couple of canister filters after the regulator 50 psi makes sense.
    Had been thinking about an Oxygenics shower head and your recommendation just tipped the scales in its favor. Thx
  • I also "try" to keep mine vertical but I think as long as it is not upside down you are fine. With a 2005 RV you more than likely have pex, and if you do 50psi should be fine. I run mine at 50-55 psi as I figure the inline filter is going to reduce that by a few psi. So far no problems. Add an oxygenics shower head and you can enjoy a nice shower and still have water.
  • As far as the gauge goes, keep it as "vertical" as you can get it. I leave my regulator set at the factory 50 psi. I don't take a guage with me, since I can check the output at home. I don't need to carry more stuff with me. Since your manufacturer recommends no more than 45 psi, then that is what I would stay at, or below. I rebuilt my rig with copper and PEX, and I have no issues with running it at 50 psi. I think it is just as important, if not more so, to keep a good filter in the system right after the regulator.