Low Water Pressure in Kitchen Faucets
A good kitchen faucet is a staple tool for cooking and cleaning. It makes a huge difference in how easy it is to wash dishes, cook, or even rinse your hair and face. That’s why it’s important to maintain your plumbing fixtures, especially if you’re experiencing low water pressure in your kitchen faucet. Low water pressure in your kitchen sink can be caused by many things, but some of them are simple DIY fixes that can save you the cost of hiring a plumber to fix it. If you’re experiencing low water pressure in your home, try turning off the water to your kitchen sink and draining it completely with a bucket to check the pressure and see if that helps. If the problem persists, follow this article for steps on how to determine what’s causing the low water pressure and how to resolve it yourself or with the help of a professional.
1. Is the Faucet Clogged?
The most obvious cause of low water pressure in your kitchen faucet is that it’s clogged. Mineral deposits and hard water buildup can block the aerator, which contains tiny holes that reduce water flow. Using a toothbrush dipped in vinegar and some water to clean the aerator can usually remove it. The other part of the faucet that can become clogged is the cartridge, which controls the flow of water through the faucet. This can also be cleaned by removing the aerator low water pressure kitchen faucets and cartridge, although this may require some advanced dismantling of your faucet.
Leaking Pipes
Leaking pipes can often be a cause of low water pressure, particularly in older homes. If you have a leak under your kitchen sink, you’ll want to turn off the water and drain the water in the sink to prevent further damage. You’ll also want to check around and under your kitchen sink for any standing water or areas where the walls are cracked. If the problem is in the main line that runs to your house, you’ll need a plumber to make repairs or replace the broken line.
2. Is It a Whole-House Issue?
If your kitchen faucet is the only one with low water pressure, you’ll need to check the rest of your home to make sure the problem isn’t a larger issue with your home’s plumbing. If you notice a sudden, drastic drop in water pressure across your entire home, it’s probably due to a corroded pipe or a city water issue.
If your kitchen faucet is the only one with a problem, you’ll likely need to dismantle it to check for issues. First, you’ll need to turn off the water supply to the sink by turning off the valve handle under the sink. Then, you’ll need to place a bucket under the sink to catch any residual water. After you’ve turned off the water, use a towel or washcloth to cover the drain and unscrew the faucet’s shut off valve handle. After removing the handle, remove the spout and unscrew the aerator to find any sediment that has settled in there. If you don’t see any sediment, then you may be able to screw the aerator back into the faucet.
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