I seem to be having an issue with pressure/flow and was hoping for some troubleshooting tips. This just started a couple weeks ago. I test my pressure with everything off, and it is around 64-68 psi. But then, if I try to turn something on, the pressure/flow is very low. And if you try to run two things at once, you barely get a trickle. This has never happened before. There have been times where we run clothes washer, dishwasher, shower, etc. at the same time and never had this issue. I've also checked with neighbors and they haven't noticed any issues. The city said they have not had any other problems reported in my area. Could this be an issue with the city's water meter maybe? My house does not have a PRV, and it occurs on any/all faucets, hoses, etc. It will not even give enough pressure to run a spinning sprinkler head. Appreciate yall's help!!!

 

This is exactly the symptoms you would have with an obstruction in your main water line. Pressure with no flow will be normal, but drops quickly as soon as there is flow.

Double check that your main shutoff valve is fully open. And double check that this happens at whatever fixture is connected closest to your water meter.

The problem is that it will be hard to determine where a blockage is as it could be anywhere from the street connection to somewhere in the main line inside your house. You'll probably have to call a plumber who will shut off the water in the street, pull the meter, and test flow right at the meter, and then go from there.

 

Thanks, Paul! Yes the main shutoff is fully open. This happens at any fixture, including the bathroom closest to the meter. I test the pressure at my hose bib closest to the meter and get 64-68 psi, then when i turn on the faucet in the bathroom, it drops to about 8 psi. when i turn the faucet off, it slowly builds back up to 64-68 psi.

 

Typical obstruction such as a washer loose in a valve or a faulty PRV...

 

Thanks, Mike! I do not have a PRV. Would yall recommend the first thing trying to replace my main shutoff valve?

 

What type of valve is it? Often gate valves are the culprit...

 

Yes, I think it is just a gate valve.

 

Here is a pic of my main shutoff valve. I believe this is a gate valve isn't it? Should I start here by replacing it with a ball valve?

 

That MIGHT be a gate valve, or it MIGHT be a globe valve. The only thing that is certain is it is a multi-turn valve.

First thing to do is dig it up.