Water pressure weirdness

[hermetic]

The water pressure has recently dropped significantly in the bathtub which has a round 1-handle faucet. It stays the same for hot, cold, and all points in between. The faucet is on an outside wall and about 2 feet away outside is a standing pipe connection for the garden hose. The pressure here has also dropped. But, the pressure is normal in the bathroom sink across the room from the tub. Likewise for the kitchen sink.

Went down to the basement to look for leaks or anything unusual but all seemed fine. The water here is heavily mineralized. Calcium buildup is common. I’m guessing the pipes are 40-50 yrs old.

I was wondering if you had any suggestions for things I could try before I do the obvious and call a plumber.
In gratitude…

[RKP5637]

1. It could be a chunk of calcium buildup within the valve(s) itself. n/t

[Chainfire]

2. You are probably going to need a plumber

Tub faucets are generally the hardest problem for even a handy homeowner to deal with.

If it is a calcification problem, you may well need an expensive re-pipe. It is possible that you may be able to prolong necessary repairs by having the faucet serviced. In my plumbing career, I have removed pipes that were so stopped up that you could not see light through a piece 3" long; there is no easy fix for that. The buildup is like concrete and it is generally not cost effective to try to remove the buildup and save the pipe.

Call the plumber, complain about the low pressure in the faucet, it could be that a piece of trash has become lodged in a place that can can be cleared, but in the meantime, start saving some money for the long-term fix.

If you end up needing a re-pipe, try to get three estimates from three reputable plumbers.

Good luck.

[Kaleva]

3. Are you talking about flow rate or pressure?

Pressure will remain pretty steady regardless of the size of opening. I've removed old galvanized water lines that were so built up with scale that you couldn't get a pencil into the pipe. My guess is that you'll need a plumber to replace the pipe unless you can do the job yourself.

[hermetic]

5. Ah. Yes

Flow is what I am referring to. Thanks.

[mobeau69]

4. You mean flow. Check aeroator (screen asbly) on spout.

If restricted soak in white vinegar to clean.