How do I fix low hot water pressure?

Question

I have drained the hot water heater (with water on and connected to hose. (a lot of clear debris came out maybe lime or calcium?). I then cut the pipe just out of the heater and cleaned out a little bit of rust. Is there anything to flush through the pipes to loosen up debris? How do I check pressure comming out of heater? I installed a compression valve after the heater if that helps. I may cut the pipe after the heater about 4 feet down at an old elbow by the floor and try and clear out there? Any way to blow pressure through after heater?

Answer 1

If you have galvanized pipes, which it sounds that you do, replace them with copper, once galv pipes are clogged up, there is not alot you can do.

Answer 2

I have also been through this procedure. It seems like a loosing battle and, in the end your going to have to buy a new heater and, it's really the best way in a long run. If "some" of your pipes are partially filled with calcium, then you can bet most are full.
There's not much you can do short of replacing all your pipes. Your speaking about pressure, not volume, they're two different animals we're speaking about here. You'll still get pressure, not volume.
I put in one inch pipes throughout my house when remodeling, thinking about this case scenario. I then put in 3/4 inch take-off lines and then the end results. I can turn on all the faucets and still get both volume and pressure with little noticeable drop in either.
I'm not saying this is the way to go but, it worked for me, maybe it's overkill but, I don't have a problem. Another thing for others to think about it keeping the heater clean. In the fall and spring I flush the heater, overkill! maybe but again, it works for me.
I wouldn't "blow pressure" through the line, you might get results you don't want. It sounds like you did the best you could now, leave it go or put in a new heater. Good luck

Answer 3

Your water pipes might be rusted up pretty good if the w heater is, so you might just replace the heater, I did and my pressure got a little better, but i still have alot of rust in my pipes so it isnt great pressure, good luck

Answer 4

I just went through this--trying to save the water heater that I did not maintain well. After lots of time and effort, I wished I had just listened to the experts and replaced it. Doing all this stuff is like trying to glue rubber bands to a worn out tire and hope it gives it some extra tred that will last.
Get a new water heater before it explodes and causes injury or your death.

Good luck.