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PineCabin
Aug 29, 2013, 12:40 PM
The symptom: When running water from the kitchen or bathroom faucet, every 3-5 seconds there is a split second of flow interruption with an accompanying bang/shudder heard/felt in the supply lines. The faucets have separate hot/cold handles... the symptom occurs in either case - when running hot water or when running cold water. I do not detect the symptom when running the shower or when the toilet tank is filling. Background: This is occurring at our cabin. During the winter months, we completely drain the supply lines and the water heater. However, this problem originated since the return of warmer weather. We do turn off the main supply line year round when we are not there; and the cabin can sit unused for a few weeks on end. Any help/guidance is appreciated.

massplumber2008
Aug 29, 2013, 01:51 PM
Hi Pinecabin

Check to see if you have a PRESSURE REGULATING VALVE (see image)... could be that the spring mechanism is faulty and needs to be repaired/replaced. This PRV valve would be near the water meter (if present)

It could also be that the heat trap nipples in the water heater are an issue... could be?

It could also be just about any single handle faucet you have in the home... hmmm?

Thoughts?

Mark

PineCabin
Aug 29, 2013, 04:00 PM
I appreciate your reply.

I'll have to check to see if there is a PRV inline at the meter. I don't recall seeing anything like it within the plumbing within the cabin.

There are no single handled faucets within the structure - sinks and shower all have two handles.

As to heat trap nipples... I'll Google them, but I am ignorant of their purpose. Please share your speculation as to what possible issue(s) may be located there.

Thanks again.

ma0641
Aug 29, 2013, 04:22 PM
I appreciate your reply.

I'll have to check to see if there is a PRV inline at the meter. I don't recall seeing anything like it within the plumbing within the cabin.

There are no single handled faucets within the structure - sinks and shower all have two handles.

As to heat trap nipples...I'll Google them, but I am ignorant of their purpose. Please share your speculation as to what possible issue(s) may be located there.

Thanks again.

They are on the Hot Water heater and keep hot water from migrating up and then being cooled. Saves energy. The older ones had balls.in them and they sometimes catch debris. I would go with a PRV. Most are located just past the house water shut off valve. Up nawth. as in " MA ", some meters are inside the house. Down here in little ole GA, the meters are outside at the curb box.