Your kitchen faucet’s trickle is maddening—is it just the sink or the whole house? If it’s sink-specific, Handybeeman pinpoints why and how to fix it.
Common Culprits
Clogged Aerator
The aerator—that endpiece on your faucet—often clogs with hard water minerals. Unscrew it, scrub the screen with a toothbrush, or soak it in vinegar overnight. Rinse and reattach—pressure should perk up.
Clogged Cartridge
Single-handle faucets have a cartridge under the handle. If aerator cleaning fails, pop off the handle (unscrew the set screw if needed), remove the cartridge cover, and pull the cartridge. Clean minor debris or replace it if gunked up—check O-rings too.
Supply Line Issues
Shut off water, disconnect a supply line into a bucket, and turn it back on. Good flow? Faucet’s the problem—replace it. No flow? Call a plumber; pipes might be blocked.
What’s an Aerator?
That unscrewable faucet tip with a mesh screen? It’s the aerator, mixing air into water to cut flow and splash. Clogs from sediment or calcium drop pressure—especially with hard water. Soak it in vinegar every few months to keep it clear.
Hot Water Low, Cold Fine?
Low hot pressure across all faucets points to the water heater. Sediment buildup cuts capacity and flow. Flush it yearly—more if water’s hard—or replace it if popping noises signal heavy deposits.
Why Handybeeman?
Pressure woes? Handybeeman pros fix aerators, cartridges, and heaters fast. Contact Handybeeman today!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How often should I clean the aerator?
Every 3-6 months—more with hard water.
Can I replace a cartridge myself?
Yes, with basic tools—kits cost $20-$50; pros charge $50-$100.
Why does sediment clog water heaters?
Hard water minerals settle and harden over time.
How long do faucets last?
10-20 years—maintenance stretches it.
Boost Pressure with Handybeeman
Restore your sink’s flow with Handybeeman’s plumbing know-how. Contact Handybeeman today!
No responses yet