What is the name of the valve used to reduce the pressure from the water supplier?

• A. Relief valve
• B. Gate valve
• C. Check valve
• D. Pressure reducing valve

Answer: (D)

Controlling incoming water pressure on the service line is done with a device that automatically lowers the downstream pressure to a safe, usable level. That device is the pressure reducing valve. It sits on the main supply line (often just after the water meter) and is adjusted to set the downstream pressure, typically around 40–60 psi for home systems. This helps protect pipes and fixtures from high city pressures and provides more consistent flow.

It’s not a relief valve, which releases excess pressure to protect equipment in tanks, boilers, or lines. It’s not a gate valve, which simply acts as a shutoff to start or stop flow. It’s not a check valve, which prevents backflow but doesn’t regulate pressure. The pressure reducing valve’s job is specifically to reduce and stabilize pressure entering the plumbing system.