Water pressure suddenly low in kitchen fixtures is a major headache for homeowners. Imagine you have a sink full of dirty dishes, you turn on the faucet, and your water only drips out! Several different issues cause this frustrating scenario. Below we review some things to check and repair on your own, as well as how to determine when it is a good time to call a professional plumber.
Reasons Leading to Low Kitchen Water Pressure
The sources that lead to low water pressure from your kitchen faucet or other plumbing fixtures are numerous. Some of the most common causes include:
- Broken water lines
- Aerator clogs
- Cartridge clogs
- Leaks
- Shut-off valve errors
Broken Water Lines
When municipal water supply lines break, water pressure problems typically arise. If this is the source behind low water pressure in kitchen plumbing fixtures, you notice the same issue in bathrooms and other water-using appliances throughout the house.
Aerator Clogs
Debris and mineral scale in your water supply become trapped when the water passes through a faucet aerator. Over time, this gunk builds up and causes a clog that restricts water pressure.
Cartridge Clogs
Cartridges are a component of certain styles of kitchen faucets. The cartridge is a component that is meant to be replaced and is not permanent. Normally, it regulates water flow through the faucet, but when clogged, water pressure seems low.
Leaks
If a pipe supplying water to your fixture has sprung a leak, a dip in water pressure is a possible symptom. This issue has the ability to cause water damage in your home, so you want a plumber to diagnose and fix the issue right away.
Shut-off Valve Errors
Each sink in your home has its own shut-off valve that cuts water flow to that specific fixture. They are usually located underneath or behind the sink. If the shut-off valve malfunctions or has accidentally been moved into a more closed position, low water pressure in kitchen fixtures results.
Find the Source of Low Water Pressure in Kitchen Fixtures
If you are able to determine the cause of water pressure decreasing in you kitchen faucets, a simple solution is often available. The following checklist helps homeowners determine if the problem is able to be resolved with a little elbow grease and know-how:
- Turn on each water source individually. If every other location has adequate pressure, the problem is isolated to your kitchen.
- Is the pressure is low in all the rooms of your home in both hot and cold water? Now is a good time to call a neighbor. If they are having issues with water pressure, your municipal water supply is the likely culprit. In this case, there is nothing to do other than contact your water provider to report the issue. They could be flushing hydrants or making water main repairs in your area.
- If your problem is with only hot water in your home, then it is likely an issue with your water heater. This issue warrants a call to your local plumber.
- Check the plumbing around and under your kitchen sink. If you notice standing or dripping water, a plumbing leak could be the cause of your low water pressure in the kitchen faucet. A quick call for plumbing service solves this problem.
DIY Fixes for Kitchen Water Pressure Issues
Once you have run through this checklist and still have low pressure in your kitchen faucet, try these DIY solutions.
Check Your Aerator
The aerator on your faucet is a mesh screen and covers the water outlet. The aerator catches minerals and other debris in your pipes. It also helps save water by introducing air into the water stream. If you have especially hard water, aerators become clogged with hard water buildup, a common cause of low water pressure in kitchen fixtures. Clean your aerator for a quick and easy DIY fix.
- Remove the aerator from the faucet using pliers and a towel (to prevent scratching). Some twist off.
- Check the aerator for minerals or other deposits.
- Turn on your faucet. If the pressure is fine, then you know it is an issue with the aerator.
- Rinse the aerator in hot water. An overnight vinegar soak is ideal for thick or stubborn deposits.
- Use a small brush (an old toothbrush is great) to thoroughly clean the aerator.
- Replace the aerator.
Check Your Faucet Cartridge
Your faucet cartridge sits deeper in your faucet than your aerator and has a hole through which water passes. These cartridges become clogged or blocked by hard water build up which produces low water pressure in kitchen faucets. Often, they just need to be cleaned. This is another relatively easy DIY fix.
- Turn off the water running to your sink and run the faucet until no more water comes out.
- Next, remove the valve handle. Remove the screw cap and screw that holds down the faucet. You might need an Allen wrench for this task.
- Remove the shut-off valve handle.
- Next, lift out the cartridge. Depending on your model, there are a couple more screws to remove. Be sure to organize them for reassembly.
- Remove the cartridge and inspect it. Cleaning with water and vinegar is an option, however we recommend you purchase a new one. Just take the old one to the hardware store to match.
If you decide to replace and have faucet installation in Atlanta as part of your repair, consider one with a WaterSense seal from the EPA. It’s always a good time to save water and money on your water bill!
For Low Water Pressure in Kitchen Faucet Fixes, Estes Services Has You Covered
Unable to find the problem? Don’t have time to deal with it? Call Estes! We have quick service and expert plumbers who locate the problem and get your faucet working again soon!
Our team of plumbing professionals handle tank and tankless water heater repair, service and installation, leaky pipes, water filtration systems, toilet issues, plumbing fixture replacements, clogged sinks and more. Just call. Emergency services are available.
