wrote in message
ps.com...
So, I have to replace all the pipe with PEX in order to do this right?
Also, is $2000 to replace the main line (underground 36" in this
region) a high estimate? Maybe I should shop around.


If you have flow problems from a restriction, you have to replace the point
that is restricted. It may be the line from the street, it may be the open
lines you see feeding everything in the house, it may be right up to the
fixtures. It may be a little bit of all of them.

If your house is 45 years old, it is probably galvanized from the street,
maybe copper as it was used in the 1960's. Lead was often used in the 40's
and early 50's. In any case, it may be near the end of its life. If may
have a buildup on the inside, it may be corroding though and leaking even
though you don't see any effects of the water yet.

If that is the case, nothing you do inside will help much. Is $2000 fair?
Possibly. Has anyone on your street had their main replaced yet? If so,
ask them. Often it means digging up the street, running a new line, then
closing up and patching the street. It will be cheaper to do this before
you have a break in the middle of winter though. If you see a few houses on
the street having the water main replaced, it is a good time to set aside
some money for yours.

I gave you a lot of "maybe" things. Only some testing can determine the
real cause. If it is every fixture in the house, I'd start with the main.
If it is only a particular bathroom, I'd start with the feed to that room.