You probably don’t think much about your kitchen sink until you have a plumbing issue. Low water pressure in your kitchen sink is one example of a plumbing problem that you may encounter. Low water pressure can make it impossible to cook a gourmet meal or wash your hands before you go to bed.
Clogged Aerator
Your aerator is the first thing to check for low water pressure in your kitchen sink. Modern kitchen faucets include an aerator that filters out minerals and debris from the water supply. This allows you to get clean tap water.
Filtering all of this debris can cause the aerator to become clogged over time. Based on how much sediment has built up, the aerator may need to be replaced or cleaned out. You can sometimes remove the aerator from some sinks. Follow these steps to do this:
- Slip-joint and towel can be used to remove the aerator. To prevent scratches, wrap the pliers with tape. Based on the model, some aerators might require twist-off instead of plier removal.
- To test the water pressure, turn the faucet off again. If water pressure drops suddenly, the problem is most likely with the aerator.
- Check the aerator for gunk, clogs or mineral deposits.
- Use hot water to rinse the aerator. To remove gunk, soak the aerator in vinegar overnight
- To scrub the aerator clean, use a small toothbrush or a cleaning brush.
- Place the aerator back in its original place.
You might notice a decrease in water pressure after you have cleaned the aerator. If your aerator is damaged or faulty, you might need to contact a plumber for a quick repair.
Blocked Cartridge
Your kitchen sink may still be experiencing low water pressure even after replacing your aerator. Some kitchen sinks don’t have cartridges. It is worth checking to see if it does. Your kitchen sink’s water flow is controlled by cartridges. They can be replaced at any time, so don’t expect them to last for the lifetime of your sink. Low water pressure in your kitchen sink could be caused by a clogged or failing cartridge.
Follow these steps to determine if your kitchen sink is experiencing low water pressure.
- Turn off the water supply to your kitchen sink by finding and turning it off.
- Turn the water off by running it until there is no more water.
- Next, remove the valve handle. The screw cap and screw that holds the faucet down must be removed. You may need an Allen wrench or a hex key to do this.
- Once you have removed the valve handle, remove the cartridge. You may have to remove a few more bolts and screws depending on which model you have before you can take out the cartridge completely.
- Check the cartridge for any signs of wear or dirt. It can be cleaned with vinegar and water. However, if the cartridge is old, we recommend that you replace it with a new one.
Municipal Water Supply Issue
Talk to your neighbors if you don’t see any improvement in your water pressure. If your neighbors are also experiencing low water pressure it is likely that your municipal water supply is the problem. Low water pressure could be caused by maintenance being performed on the supply line connecting your home to the municipal water lines. Talk to your water company about the problem.
Faulty Pressure Reducing Valve
Most likely, your kitchen sink has a pressure regulator valve (also known as a PRV). It is shaped like a bell, and comes pre-adjusted from the manufacturer. This valve can be adjusted to adjust the water pressure.
You could flood your home if you don’t turn off all the water supply valves before you try to loosen or remove this valve. You may need to replace the PRV if you are unable to adjust it or if you notice obvious signs of damage, excessive age or other issues. For a quick and easy replacement, contact a plumber.
Shutoff Valve Failure
Your kitchen sink, like all other sinks in your house, has a shutoff valve. It is usually located under the sink. The shutoff valve is used to turn off the water supply to your sink, as the name suggests. The valve can become stiff over time due to rust and minerals building up. You might have pushed items under your sink and caused low water pressure.
You should make sure that the shutoff valve is fully open. You may have hot and cold water shutoffs on some kitchen sinks. Make sure they are both open. You may need to replace the valve(s) if there is damage or suspicion of a leak. You should contact a local Long Beach, CA Plumber to resolve the problem as soon as possible.
Pipe Leak
A leak can be caused by a single hole or joint in your pipes. If your kitchen sink is low in water pressure, this could be the culprit. A pipe leak is not something you should attempt to repair yourself. Your plumbing system is complicated and can cause more damage than good. Turn off the water supply if you suspect that there is a leak. Call a local Long Beach, CA Plumber immediately.
Water Line Problem
Your water lines are what connect your sinks and appliances to your home’s pipes. Your kitchen sink can experience low water pressure if there is a leak or break in the water line. Check to see if the water pressure is low by shutting off all water supply valves, faucets, and taking a reading from your water meter. Give it four hours and then do another reading. If your reading changes, it could be a sign that there is a problem with your water supply. This is another problem you won’t be able to fix yourself, so get emergency plumbing services immediately.
Do you have other plumbing problems? What should you do if your drain is blocked? Why is your sink gurgling while you drain? These and other questions are answered by us to assist homeowners.
Do you need a Long Beach, CA Plumber immediately? We are available 24/7 for routine maintenance and emergency plumbing. In addition, we can also repair or replace your HVAC system to keep your home comfortable. Call us today to take care of everything and at the kitchen sink!