Hi, I noticed in the past two weeks the water in the shower was pulsating. I thought uh oh we may need a new water heater. It didn't happen all the time though. Now today it seems to be more, and also with the faucets- and the hubby noticed it too. What could be causing this? We have a water heater in the garage and not sure how old it is. We don't have a water softener or anything. Thanks for your thoughts I appreciate them in advance.

Are you on well water? If so, then it sounds like your pressure tank is water logged. And, if so, then can you tell us if your tank is painted or galvanized?

If on city water I would look at the main pressure regulating valve. Failing ones can fluctuate.

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Originally Posted by jlisenbe

Are you on well water? If so, then it sounds like your pressure tank is water logged. And, if so, then can you tell us if your tank is painted or galvanized?

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No, we are on city water. Also just looked at the water heater and there's a pipe that runs out of the water heater and into the wall- the knob is completely rusted and won't budge. I was going to turn it to see what would happen, not sure why but I thought I would just see. Will this be a problem at some point. I would think so but any thoughts? Thank you.

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Originally Posted by ma0641

If on city water I would look at the main pressure regulating valve. Failing ones can fluctuate.

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We are on city water. Would the main pressure regulating valve be at the water heater or at the entry point to the house? Thanks.

Don't touch the safety on the hot water heater! If it is rusty and you open it you may not get it closed. The pressure regulating valve is the conical shaped device on the main line, usually where the water line enters the house. I have seen them fail and cause drastic pressure changes. Have someone turn on a tub and stand by the PRV. Is it vibrating or shaking?

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Originally Posted by ma0641

Don't touch the safety on the hot water heater! If it is rusty and you open it you may not get it closed. The pressure regulating valve is the conical shaped device on the main line, usually where the water line enters the house. I have seen them fail and cause drastic pressure changes. Have someone turn on a tub and stand by the PRV. Is it vibrating or shaking?

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Duly noted. Thanks. I will check for PRV outside in the morning and try turning on tub.