How a Simple Filter Upgrade Transformed Water Flow in a Newport Home

Plumbing | Newport | Plumbing in Newport

Customer Case: No Water at the Washing Machine

A homeowner in Newport reached out after a recent repipe when their washing machine stopped pulling in water. A HEP technician arrived to check the setup. By switching the machine from “autosense” to the regular fill setting, the water flow resumed immediately.

While inside the utility wall, the technician heard dripping from the adjacent shower and discovered an upside-down Moen valve cartridge that was missing its internal stop device. That faulty valve kept running and was a ticking time bomb for leaks. On top of that, the household had just switched over to a well system, and the water was showing an orange tint. The homeowner agreed to install a sediment filter and replace the shower valve the next day.

Summary of the Solution

Diagnosed the Washing Machine: Adjusted the water-fill setting to restore flow.
Identified the Shower Valve Issue: Found an upside-down cartridge and missing stop piece causing continuous run.
Recommended Water Treatment: Suggested a sediment filter and a water test after well conversion.
Installed a Whole-Home Sediment Filter: Mounted the housing, added a bypass valve, and insulated the outdoor supply line.
Replaced the Shower Valve: Cut into the shiplap wall, swapped in a new valve, tested for leaks, and closed the panel.

New PEX Installation in Crawl Space

Above: A snapshot of the new blue PEX water line and protective conduit in the crawl space, installed by a HEP technician.

Tips for Newport Homeowners

1. Check Appliance Settings First
Before calling a plumber, make sure your washer and dishwasher settings match the water source. “Autosense” modes can sometimes override water intake after plumbing changes.

2. Listen for Hidden Drips
A small drip behind a wall can signal a valve installed incorrectly or missing parts. Having easy access panels helps you and a HEP technician find trouble fast.

3. Treat Your Well Water
Well systems can introduce sediment, rust, or discoloration. A basic sediment filter at the point of entry protects fixtures and extends appliance life.

HEP Technician Installing Water Filter Housing

Above: A HEP technician fitting a new filter housing next to the main water line for easy service access.

4. Use a Bypass Valve
Installing a bypass around your filter makes maintenance and cartridge changes quick and worry-free.

5. Insulate Exposed Lines
Insulating pipes near outside walls prevents freezing and reduces condensation, which can lead to mold or damage.

New Aqua Flo Water Filter Housing Completed Whole-Home Water Filtration System

Above: The new Aqua Flo filter housing (left) and the finished, insulated whole-home system (right), ready to deliver clean, clear water.

By following these simple measures and calling a qualified HEP technician when issues arise, Newport homeowners can keep water flowing freely and protect their plumbing investment for years to come.

Published on September 8, 2025