True or False: The minimum constant pressure on the discharge side of the water meter is 20 psi.

True or False: The minimum constant pressure on the discharge side of the water meter is 20 psi.

• A. False
• B. Not specified
• C. True
• D. Not applicable

Answer: (C)

The key idea is that downstream of the water meter there must be a guaranteed minimum pressure to keep the system functioning properly and to protect backflow devices. Codes specify a minimum constant pressure on the discharge side of the meter so that, even when water is being drawn by multiple fixtures, there’s enough pressure available to supply those fixtures reliably and to keep backflow prevention devices operating correctly. That minimum is 20 psi, so the statement is true. If downstream pressure fell below this level, some fixtures might not receive adequate flow and protective devices could be compromised.

The key idea is that downstream of the water meter there must be a guaranteed minimum pressure to keep the system functioning properly and to protect backflow devices. Codes specify a minimum constant pressure on the discharge side of the meter so that, even when water is being drawn by multiple fixtures, there’s enough pressure available to supply those fixtures reliably and to keep backflow prevention devices operating correctly. That minimum is 20 psi, so the statement is true. If downstream pressure fell below this level, some fixtures might not receive adequate flow and protective devices could be compromised.