Question
Matt, I have a large lawn on lakehouse that I irrigate 5 zones but I have to much pressure.  I have way too much pressure.  I know I need a pressure reducing valve but would like to have one they I could control the pressure or set it at what I desire.  My pump is on pier with 1-1/2 pvc and increased to 2" going through retaining wall.  I could pipe down to lake off of reducing valve to releive water pressure but would really like to control pressure.  Got any ideas what I need to buy before I bust the pipe again or blow the sprinkler heads up.  Ive had 2hp pump for 3 years and I dont want to replace pump.  thanks


Answer
Thanks for the question.
Well the good news is you have too much pressure. Most problems are from too little. You don't have to worry the pump is going to go bad from too high of pressure. They are engineered to pump the pressures and flows of the casing and motor. It is doing what it was designed for.
As far as regulators, Watts Regulators are some of the better types. But, you won't like the price. That goes for any brass regulator, they are not cheap. An alternative is to use a pressure relief "blow-off" valve. Say you set it at 45PSI, if the pressure goes beyond that, it relieve "dumps" the excess water/pressure. You would need to pipe the relief water down to the lake or somewhere it doesn't cause erosion. You can buy one at a pump or well supply store. They are less than $50.00.
I'm curious as to why you feel you have too much pressure. The Goulds pump isn't capable of producing pressure which would break standard PVC pipe. If it usually burst at the pump, it may be you are having a problem with the pump prime or a valve isn't opening when it is suppose to. Under either circumstance, the pump heats the water if it can't flow it. This softens the pipe and allows it to burst. It give the appearance the of too much pressure.
Just a thought before you go to all the work to install a pressure regulator.
Good luck, if I you have further questions feel free to ask.

Matt