I just had the trench dug to re-route my service from the curb-side meter to the house. Can you folks offer some suggestions as to how the components should be configured (i.e. the shut off valve, regulator , etc.) before entering the house?
The way it’s currently set up is as follows: Full port ball valve, Hose bib, Pressure regulator, then entering the house. I like having the hose bib before the reg. for wash downs, etc.
I’m a little more concerned about the details like branching off for future sprinklers, is one branch enough? What about unions? I was thinking of one before shut off valve and one after the regulator so that they can be serviced.
This will all be done in 1″ copper, increasing from the existing 3/4″. By the way, the reason for the upgrade is we’re diving into a major renovation (mostly tear down) and the current service location is in the way of a new footing.
Anything else I should consider?
Thanks!
Jim
Replies
The shutoff valve and pressure regulator should be inside, unless it's warm enough there to put them in a pit. Where are you located?
Note that a lot of your config may be specified/restricted by local code.
I forgot to ask about another concern. The meter (35 feet from the house) has a 1" NPT outlet. If my calcs. show that an 1 1/4" service is required does it matter that the meter is only 1"? Also, how far past the regulator should the 1 1/4" (if required) go before I can bush it down to 1"?
All the services are outdoors here (Southern California). At my house it never gets below 45 F.
Thanks!
Jim
I like the shutoff outside the house in a conspicuous place (so DW can find it easily if she's home alone and the washing machine hose blows). Ball valve oriented so that the 'on' position is straight up. Pressure regulator inside in an accessible area but probably not outside unless your kids and their friends are well behaved.
I'm not an expert on the line sizing but usually I've seen the line diameter from the meter run to the water heater. You may need to pay the water utility to replace the meter with larger, but it's a function of pressure, length of run, etc. If you need 1-1/4" I would ask the inspector where he'll let you size down. It may be at the first branch.
As you're replumbing under the house, add pairs of ball valves to isolate the kitchen, bathrooms, laundry, etc. You'll thank yourself later when you can rework one small area without turning off and draining the entire house. I added a couple of hose bibbs under the house in low spots to assist with draining the lines (use a short garden house to get outside). Easier than draining during/after cutting into a line.