The utilization of pressure-reducing valves stands as a highly effective method for managing pressure within a water distribution system, thereby minimizing leakage. To enhance sustainability and management, it is advisable to strategically position an appropriate number of pressurereducing valves within the water distribution system. A revised version of the reference pressure algorithm, sourced from existing literature, is employed to determine the optimal placement of valves using a simplified approach. However, when dealing with extensive water pipeline networks, the modified reference pressure algorithm falls short in pinpointing the most suitable valve locations. To address this limitation, a nodal matrix analysis is introduced to refine the modified reference pressure algorithm. This enhanced algorithm offers a preferable selection of pipeline segments for valve placement from the array of potential pressure-reducing valve sites generated by the adjusted reference algorithm, especially in intricate pipeline networks. The real-world application of this refined algorithm takes place in Campos do Conde II, a water network situated in, Kapra. By employing this algorithm, four pipeline locations are identified as optimal valve candidates, a notable improvement compared to the 22 locations suggested by the modified reference pressure algorithm. Consequently, this technique significantly enhances the precision of valve placement, contributing to an improved overall network optimization, sustainability, and management. Empirical findings from this study underscore the efficacy of the proposed algorithm, showcasing a substantial 20.08% reduction in water leakages across the water network.