The fixtures should each deliver their rated flow without the struggle. A flow test on every tap finds the weak links in the system.
The list
Write down every fixture from the kitchen to the hose bib. freezing winters put stress on exposed lines, and many older rowhomes have aging supply lines In Washington, the list keeps the audit straight.
The bucket
Time the one-gallon fill at each fixture in turn. freezing winters put stress on exposed lines, and many older rowhomes have aging supply lines In Washington, the fill time is the measure.
The rating
Compare the measured flow to the fixture's rated gallons per minute. freezing winters put stress on exposed lines, and many older rowhomes have aging supply lines In Washington, the rating is the target.
The low
A weak fixture points to the clogged aerator or the valve. freezing winters put stress on exposed lines, and many older rowhomes have aging supply lines In Washington, the low flow is the clue.
The shared
Test two fixtures at once to see the pressure drop. freezing winters put stress on exposed lines, and many older rowhomes have aging supply lines In Washington, the shared test shows the limit.
The record
Log the flows and retest after the repairs and the swaps. freezing winters put stress on exposed lines, and many older rowhomes have aging supply lines In Washington, the log tracks the changes.
The call
Need a flow audit? Call 888-217-3585 and Washington Plumbing Experts will match you with a Washington pro for the check.
Plumbing in Washington: what to know
In Washington, freezing winters put stress on exposed lines, and many older rowhomes have aging supply lines. Pros in our network know the local quirks and bring the right parts on the first visit.
Across District of Columbia County — from Mount Rainier, Hyattsville and Takoma Park to ZIP codes like 20001, 20535, 20005 — homeowners deal with the same kinds of issues. The tips above apply locally, and when a job goes beyond a quick fix, a vetted local pro is only a call away.
Need a hand in Washington?
If a plumbing issue is beyond a quick fix, don't wait for it to get worse. Call 888-217-3585 and Washington Plumbing Experts will match you with a vetted local pro — usually within minutes. Learn more about plumbing help in Washington.