It’s safe to say your kitchen is one of the most-used rooms in your home. And among all the appliances and devices in your kitchen, the sink is usually the main attraction. You use the sink for all kinds of tasks, from doing the dishes to washing fruits and vegetables. So when you encounter a water pressure problem with your kitchen faucet, it’s easy to feel frustrated.
If you notice low pressure all throughout your home, there’s a chance that the municipal water supply could be to blame. However, if the issue is confined to your kitchen, this points to another complication.
Common Causes of Low Water Pressure
So, what causes low water pressure in kitchen sinks? Unfortunately, in order to get to the bottom of this issue, you may have to do a little troubleshooting. There can be various causes of this problem; some can be easy to fix, while others may require a more comprehensive solution.
Plumbing Leak
When discussing what causes low water pressure in kitchen sinks, it’s crucial to start with the problems that require immediate attention. For example, a sudden or drastic change in water pressure can be the result of a broken or damaged water line. You’ll want to address this particular issue as soon as possible to limit the amount of water damage caused to your home. In this scenario, emergency plumbing repair is your only option.
If you think your water supply lines could be damaged, don’t hesitate to call an experienced plumber for help. You’ll also want to be on the lookout for high water bills, visible water damage throughout your home, and the sound of running water.
Malfunctioning PRV
A pressure-reducing valve (PRV) has an incredibly important job in that it ensures your water pressure remains at a safe level. This way, you don’t have to worry about excessively high water pressure damaging your plumbing system. Unfortunately, it’s also worth pointing out that this valve can malfunction and result in low water pressure.
The pressure-reducing valve is known for being shaped like a bell and can usually be found where the water line connects to your home. You can adjust the PRV to see if this fixes your water pressure problem, but don’t forget to shut off your water supply beforehand.
Blocked Aerator
Clogged aerators can also be what causes low water pressure in kitchen sinks. Aerators have mesh screens that are designed to control the flow rate of water coming out of your faucets. However, these screens can become blocked with various types of debris, such as calcium deposits, which can negatively affect your water pressure.
The good news is that you can clean the aerator in your kitchen sink to get it working again. Before removing the aerator, remember to turn off the water to your faucet. Once you’ve done this, simply grab the aerator and twist it off. You can also use a pair of pliers if necessary.
After you’ve removed the aerator and disassembled the parts, you’ll want to wash off any large pieces of debris. If you want to ensure the aerator is thoroughly cleaned, you can soak the parts in vinegar overnight. Once you’re sure that all the debris has been removed, you can reinstall the aerator and check the water pressure to see if it has improved.
Clogged Cartridge
Every sink has a cartridge — and for a good reason. This cartridge controls the literal flow of water coming out of the faucet. So if this important component becomes clogged or damaged, it’s easy to see how such a problem can be why your kitchen sink water pressure is low.
Do you think your kitchen faucet could have a blocked cartridge? If so, it’s definitely something worth investigating further. When it comes down to it, clogged cartridges are some of the most common causes of low water pressure in the kitchen sink.
If you’re interested in cleaning the cartridge, there are a few key steps you’ll need to follow. You should start by shutting off the water supply beneath this sink. You’ll also need to detach the cap head with a screwdriver. Then, remove the screw cap and screw holding down the faucet with an Allen wrench. Similar to the aerator, you’ll most likely need to soak the cartridge in a mixture of vinegar and warm water overnight.
Are you uncomfortable cleaning the cartridge yourself? If so, don’t hesitate to reach out to a plumber for help. An expert will check the problem and may recommend replacing the cartridge if it’s excessively damaged.
Have a Plumbing Problem? Call the Pros at Radiant!
As you can see, there are many potential reasons why your kitchen sink water pressure is low. From plumbing leaks to clogged aerators, the problem can range in size and scope. Hopefully, this guide has made it easier to identify the root cause of the issue.
Now that you know what causes low water pressure in kitchen sinks, it’s time to be proactive. If you think it’s time to call a professional plumber, Radiant Plumbing & Air Conditioning is the name to know. Our team is standing by, ready to help. We offer a wide range of plumbing services to meet your needs, which includes everything from water softening services to comprehensive water heater repair in Austin, TX.
Whether you have a problem with your water lines, drains, or water heater, you can count on us to provide you with a trustworthy solution. Contact us today to schedule an appointment!
