Why is the water pressure still low after a new water heater was installed? Each week veteran landlord and property manager Hank Rossi answers questions from other landlords and property managers around the country about their rentals. Here is this week’s question:
Dear Landlord Hank:
We had a long-time tenant move out and in getting ready for next one, noticed the old hot water tank was leaking. We replaced it. Once it was installed the contractor said there was very little hot water pressure. It is an older house and he thinks the water line to the whole house may need replacing. I am skeptical. Previous tenant never reported an issue. Have you ever heard of such a thing?
-Landlord Sam
Dear Landlord Sam,
Anything can happen with old plumbing.
The first thing to check is the cut off valve -sometimes this is not letting water flow properly and may need to be replaced. There could also have been problems with installation when the lines were connected to the tank-maybe too much flux or solder was used and is blocking the line.
Also, if all the pipes are old, maybe debris was dislodged and is now blocking the small filtering screens at the end of your faucets. I’d let a qualified plumber check the simple things before you go replacing pipes. Good luck!
Did you see our post about water heaters in earthquake areas?
Is The Water Heater At Your Rental Property Ready For The “Big One?”
About the author:
“I started in real estate as a child watching my father take care of our family rentals- maintenance, tenant relations, etc , in small town Ohio. As I grew, I was occasionally Dad’s assistant. In the mid-90s I decided to get into the rental business on my own, as a sideline. In 2001, I retired from my profession and only managed my own investments, for the next 10 years. Six years ago, my sister, working as a rental agent/property manager in Sarasota, Florida convinced me to try the Florida lifestyle. I gave it a try and never looked back. A few years ago we started our own real estate brokerage. We focus on property management and leasing. I continue to manage my real estate portfolio here in Florida and Atlanta. ” Visit Hank’s website here.
Photo credit Aleutie via istockphoto.com