I've got a well setup at home with copper pipes, and I've recently replaced my water heater and pressure tank. However, I'm experiencing a frustrating issue: the water pressure starts strong when I turn on the faucet, but after about 30 seconds, it drops significantly. I've tried a few things like cleaning aerators and switching my water softener to bypass mode. I suspect it might be due to buildup in my pipes. I'm considering using a CLR solution to clean them, but I'm worried it might damage my plumbing. Has anyone tackled a similar problem or have suggestions without having to replace the pipes?
2 Answers
Using CLR in your entire plumbing system might not be the best idea. It's true that it can be harsh on some fixtures, and you wouldn’t want it to mess with your water softener or copper pipes. Maybe consider running vinegar through the pipes instead; it's a milder alternative that could help with calcium buildup without the risks of CLR. Just keep an eye on it!
I actually faced a similar issue before, and it turned out the main valve was the culprit. It was partially closed, which led to fluctuating pressure after a while. You might want to check if your main valve is fully open and see if there are any gate valves near the pressure tank that could be blocking flow.
Great point! I didn't even think to check the main valve. That could definitely be a choke point if it's not fully open.
Yeah, I've heard vinegar can do wonders for buildup without causing damage. It's worth a shot!