This screen protects the household plumbing from becoming clogged with debris that can often cause "splurting" water from the faucets. Learning to correctly clean it can prevent water trouble in your home.
Things You Will Need
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Turn the main waterline leading to the pressure reducing valve. This valve is usually located where the waterline enters the home.
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Unscrew the strainer plug on the pressure-reducing valve. This is a large cap screw on the upstream side of the pressure valve. Hold a bucket by the valve to catch the water in the household pipes, which drains back after unscrewing the strainer plug.
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Remove and clean the stainless steel strainer screen by using warm water, mild detergent and a rag. Gently rub the strainer screen clean of any debris.
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Reinstall the strainer screen and strainer plug in the same way that you removed them.
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Carefully turn the water back on at the main water valve, and examine the water system for leaks.
The Drip Cap
- National and local plumbing codes require that a water pressure reducing valve should be installed at buildings where municipal water supply pressures exceed 80 psi.
- This valve is usually located where the waterline enters the home.
- Hold a bucket by the valve to catch the water in the household pipes, which drains back after unscrewing the strainer plug.