[kelliokc]

Hi!
I searched the forums and didn't find my exact problem.

So at every faucet in the house, the cold water drops off after initial turn on. House is on the public water main and was plumbed with PVC pipe. Just turned 5 yrs old

I am guessing I have some kind of obstruction? There is a main shut off in the front hall closet and that is also where the pressure valve is, I think...

I can switch out a faucet but am a little clueless on how the whole house plumbing thing. I do have a key to shut off the water at the main.

[massplumber2008]

Hi Kelliokc...


I'm wondering if that "pressure valve" in the closet is a pressure regulator valve... see image below. If it is a pressure regulating valve then the strainer/filter may be clogged with sediment and it will need to be cleaned. Here, you can shut off the main water supply, drain the water from the pipes and then try to access the strainer/filter assembly inside the valve... see image again... ;)

If you attempt this, plan on using two wrenches. One wrench to loosen the strainer plug and the other to hold against yourself and reduce the chances of disturbing another joint/thread.

Once you gain access to the strainer/filter, use a pair of needlenose pliers to grab the strainer and pull it out to wash/clean. While the strainer/filter is out PULSE the water main to allow water through the pressure regulator and blow out any loose sediment in the main.

After all is clean you will want to reassemble the unit and test how all worked out. If the result is poor in any way, you want to plan on simply replacing the entire pressure regulator valve. It usually spins off and can be reconnected to the water main WITHOUT SOLDERING if needed. Let us know if you want to discuss this more.

Otherwise, if I'm off here, let us know a little more about that pressure valve in the closet... a picture would really help.

Back to you...

MARK

[ballengerb1]

You said cold pressure drops, what about the hot pressure, does it remain good?