PRV (Pressure Reducing Valve)
A Pressure Reducing Valve (PRV) is an important plumbing device that controls and reduces high water pressure coming into buildings to a safe, usable level. Think of it like a traffic controller for water pressure. Without it, high pressure could damage pipes, appliances, and fixtures in homes or buildings. Plumbers install and maintain these valves to protect plumbing systems and ensure consistent water pressure. You might also see these referred to as pressure regulators or pressure limiting valves, but they all serve the same basic purpose of managing water pressure.
Examples in Resumes
Installed and maintained PRVs in residential and commercial buildings
Diagnosed and repaired faulty Pressure Reducing Valves in high-rise buildings
Performed regular maintenance checks on Pressure Regulators for a 200-unit apartment complex
Typical job title: "Plumbers"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Plumbers
Professional Organizations
Online Communities
Job Resources
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How would you troubleshoot a building-wide water pressure issue in a high-rise building?
Expected Answer: A senior plumber should explain the systematic approach: checking main PRV functionality, inspecting for bypass issues, verifying pressure gauge readings at different floors, and considering the need for multiple PRVs or booster pumps if necessary.
Q: What factors do you consider when sizing a PRV for a commercial building?
Expected Answer: Should discuss building height, number of fixtures, peak demand, incoming water pressure, and required pressure at highest points. Should also mention the importance of proper documentation and local code compliance.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What are the common signs that a PRV needs replacement?
Expected Answer: Should mention fluctuating water pressure, unusual noises, leaks around the valve, high water bills, and frequent fixture problems as key indicators. Should also discuss typical PRV lifespan and maintenance schedule.
Q: How do you adjust a PRV and what's the typical pressure range for residential settings?
Expected Answer: Should explain the adjustment process using the adjustment screw, recommended pressure ranges (typically 50-80 PSI), and the importance of checking multiple fixtures after adjustment.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What is the purpose of a PRV in a plumbing system?
Expected Answer: Should explain that PRVs protect plumbing systems by reducing high incoming water pressure to safe levels, preventing damage to pipes and fixtures.
Q: Where is a PRV typically installed in a building's plumbing system?
Expected Answer: Should know that PRVs are usually installed after the main water shutoff valve where the water supply enters the building, before it branches off to the rest of the plumbing system.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic PRV installation and replacement
- Understanding of water pressure basics
- Simple pressure testing
- Basic tool usage and safety procedures
Mid (2-5 years)
- PRV troubleshooting and repair
- Pressure system design for residential buildings
- Code compliance knowledge
- Complex installation projects
Senior (5+ years)
- Commercial and industrial PRV systems
- Complex system design and implementation
- Team supervision and training
- Emergency pressure system repairs
Red Flags to Watch For
- No knowledge of local plumbing codes and regulations
- Unable to read water pressure gauges accurately
- Lack of understanding about water pressure principles
- No experience with different types of PRVs and their applications
Related Terms
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