Watts 0009128 3/4 In Lead Free Water Pressure Reducing Valve, Npt Female Union X Npt Female, Low Range 10-35 psi

Both ends are 3/4 inch female NPT threads, with the inlet side supplied as a union connection so you can break the valve out of the line without cutting pipe. Nothing extra is needed to join it to 3/4 inch threaded pipe or to threaded adapters on copper or PEX.

The body is a lead free copper silicon alloy, which is what Watts uses on its LF series for potable water service. Trim is bronze and the seat disc is EPDM, both standard for domestic water. It is rated for commercial and residential use.

The LFU5B-Z3 valve includes a built in thermal expansion bypass, so when downstream pressure from water heater expansion exceeds inlet pressure, it relieves back through the valve instead of building against a closed system. On many residential installs that removes the closed system condition a plain PRV creates. Where local code or the water heater manufacturer requires an expansion tank regardless, install one.

A stainless steel strainer is integral to the valve, so no separate Y strainer is required ahead of it for normal service. Leave clearance at the strainer cap so it can be pulled and cleaned, since debris on the seat is the usual cause of creep on a reducing valve.

Yes, within limits. The maximum operating temperature is 180 F (82 C), which covers domestic hot water recirculation and tempered lines. Minimum is 33 F (0.5 C), so it must not be installed where the line can freeze. It is not a steam or boiler high temperature valve.

Maximum working pressure is 300 psi (20.7 bar), so it handles high street pressure and the surges that come with it. The body also carries a corrosion resistant coating, useful in damp meter pits and vaults.

No gauge is supplied with the 0009128. To verify and dial in the setting you will need a separate gauge downstream, such as a hose bibb test gauge, or a gauge-equipped version of the valve.