Had a similar experience a few years back—client's house had terrible water pressure, and they'd tried every DIY trick imaginable. When I finally opened things up, the galvanized pipes were so corroded it was like trying to push water through a straw filled with sand. Switched them out for PEX piping (copper's great too, but PEX is usually quicker and more affordable), and the difference was night and day.
On the topic of water-saving rules, it's always worth paying attention to them, even if you're just doing repairs. Installing low-flow fixtures or aerators can make a noticeable difference in your water bill without sacrificing comfort. Plus, if you're already opening walls or replacing pipes, it's the perfect opportunity to upgrade to more efficient plumbing fixtures. Might as well tackle two birds with one stone...
Interesting perspective on the low-flow fixtures. I've used them in some of my properties too, and while they definitely help with water bills, the tenant feedback hasn't always been glowing. I once swapped out showerheads in a few units to low-flow models thinking it was a smart move—until tenants started complaining that showers took forever because rinsing shampoo from their hair became a chore. Ended up switching back to mid-range flow fixtures just to keep everyone happy.
I totally agree that upgrading pipes during repairs makes sense—no argument there—but when it comes to fixtures, there's definitely a balance between saving water and keeping comfort levels reasonable. It's easy as landlords or homeowners to chase efficiency numbers without considering real-world inconvenience. Sometimes the savings just aren't worth the hassle if tenants or family members end up unhappy and using water longer anyway...
"Sometimes the savings just aren't worth the hassle if tenants or family members end up unhappy and using water longer anyway..."
Haha, exactly—been there myself. Ever tried washing dishes with one of those ultra-low-flow faucets? Felt like I aged five years waiting for the sink to fill... efficiency has its limits, right?
