Overview
Watts U5B-Z3 water pressure reducing valve (part number 0054350) is a high-performance 2″ threaded bronze valve engineered for commercial, industrial, and residential water systems. Series U5B-Z3 High Performance Water Pressure Reducing Valves are used in commercial, industrial, and residential applications to reduce incoming water pressure for protection of plumbing system components and to reduce water consumption. This model provides dependable pressure control and thermal expansion relief in a proven, serviceable design.
Key Features
- Bronze body construction, integral stainless steel strainer replaceable seat module
- Available with threaded, solder or quick-connect end connections
- Standard bypass feature permits the flow of water back through the valve into the main when pressures, due to thermal expansion on the outlet side of the valve, exceed the pressure in the main supply
- Standard construction includes Z3 sealed spring cage and stainless steel corrosion resistant adjusting cage screws for accessible outdoor or pit installations
- All parts are quickly and easily serviceable without removing the valve from the line
Technical Specifications
- Maximum Working Pressure: 300psi (21 bar)
- Adjustable Reduced Pressure Range: 25 to 75psi (172 to 517 kPa)
- Standard Pressure Setting: 50psi (345 kPa)
- Port Size: 2″ NPT threaded female union inlet × NPT female outlet
- Body Material: Bronze with stainless steel integral strainer
- Operating Temperature: 33–160°F (0.5–71°C)
- Built-in thermal expansion bypass
- Replaceable seat module for maintenance
Typical Applications
The Watts U5B-Z3 is commonly installed in single-family homes, multi-unit residential buildings, and commercial properties where incoming main pressure exceeds 60 psi and needs reduction to protect downstream fixtures and reduce water consumption. Standard settings protect system components while the adjustable range (25–75 psi) accommodates varying pressure requirements. The thermal expansion bypass is essential in closed-system applications where thermal pressure buildup could damage fixtures or pipes.
Compatibility & Replacements
Compatible With
- Municipal water supply systems (300 psi maximum inlet pressure)
- Residential and commercial plumbing installations with NPT female union connections
- Closed-loop water systems requiring thermal expansion relief
- Domestic hot water applications (up to 160°F)
Replaces / Drop-In Replacement For
- Watts model 0009204 (LFU5B-Z3 2″ lead-free version listed as replacement for older 0054350)
- Earlier Watts U5B series valves with standard threaded connections
Works With
- Standard 2″ NPT (National Pipe Thread) female union plumbing connections
- Bronze-body and brass-body piping systems
- Thermal expansion tanks and bypass relief systems
- Water meters and supply-side pressure gauges
