Pressure Reducing Valves Program

About the Project

As of 2020, the City of St. Albert has 30 water pressure-reducing valves (PRV) located throughout St. Albert.

The intent of the program is to be conducted in the following stages:

Stage 1 - develop a PRV chamber standard to be included in the City’s Municipal Engineering Standards. Standardization of PRVs will assist with keeping maintenance and replacement costs down, greater efficiencies, ease of operations and maintenance and ensures uniformity in the operations.
Stage 2 - use the City’s PRV standard design to begin replacing PRV’s throughout the city before any breakdown occurs.

What are Pressure Reducing Valves?

These are mechnical devices located within underground vaults and are connected to water mains designed to manage and regulate water pressure and flow throughout the city water distribution system.
They automatically adjust water pressure and flow with the intent to maintain pre-configured set points within the city water distribution system.

Why the City Uses these Valves?

Protects Infrastructure: Prevents damage to water pipes and joints caused by excessively high-water pressure.
Improves System Efficiency: Helps balance water distribution across different zones and elevations in the city.
Reduces Water Loss: High pressure can cause leaks and pipe bursts - PRVs help minimize water loss and unnecessary system stress.
Supports Fire Protection: Control valves help ensure adequate water flow and pressure for firefighting when needed.
Manages Elevation Changes: St. Albert consists of hills and varying elevations. These valves control pressure and differences caused by gravity.
Saves Energy and Costs: Reduced pressure means less energy used for pumping and less frequent emergency repairs, saving public funds.

Temporary sidewalk and road closures.
Equipment will be on-site for excavation and material installation. Please obey all signage and fenced-off areas.
Noise disturbance will occur during work hours.