What is the purpose of a pressure reducing valve (PRV)?

The purpose of a pressure reducing valve (PRV) is to reduce the incoming water pressure to safe levels for fixtures. In plumbing systems, high water pressure can cause unnecessary stress on pipes, fittings, and fixtures, leading to leaks or damage over time. The PRV serves to regulate and lower the pressure of the incoming water supply to a more manageable level, ensuring that it is within the safe operating range for household plumbing. This helps protect the integrity of the plumbing system and prolongs the lifespan of appliances and fixtures.

In contrast, controlling the flow of gas, increasing water temperature, and preventing backflow involve different mechanisms and components, such as gas valves, temperature controls, and backflow preventers, respectively, which serve specific functions unrelated to the pressure reduction of water in a plumbing system.